Warm Bodies Movie Review

Warm Bodies  Starring: Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, John Malkovich, Rob Corddry, Dave Franco, Analeigh Tipton

Directed by Jonathan Levine

Rated: R Run Time: 97 minutes Genre: Comedy/ Horror/ Romance

Opens February 1st

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Now that, the vampire craze has subsided, it is time for the reign of the zombies. Based on the debut novel by Isaac Marion, “Warm Bodies” is a fresh and unique take on the zombie genre, breathing new life in an otherwise favorite genre. Don’t be quick to judge this film to be the next "Twilight"-esq film for the teen genre, as it’s much more (and better written) than it’s fellow monster story predecessor.

Welcome to Earth, post- mysterious illness that turned most of the population into flesh eating, nomadic, soulless zombies that we all know and love. Those who remain left uninfected (still human) now live behind a fortress like structure in the middle of the city, heavily guarded with tons of ammunition led by General Grigio (John Malkovich).

Narrated from the point of view from a zombie who still can manage thoughts, “R” (Nicholas Hoult) spends much of his time wandering aimlessly throughout the airport where he and many other zombies occupy as their home. He is unusual for a zombie as he is capable of thought, appreciates music and is kind of a kleptomaniac. He took over a 747 as his hideout and is his home away from the rest of the world.  Most of R’s time in the 747 is spent listening to music, which stirs something unfamiliar within him.

R has managed to find a “friend” among the undead, “M” (Rob Corddry) where they kind of communicate and have as much of a relationship that two zombies who can barley speak can have. When the packs of zombies are not out hunting for food, they try to stay away from the “Bonies”, those that are so far gone as zombies that their bones show through their tautly pulled skin and more sinister than the regular zombies.

While out on a hunt one day, the pack of zombies encounter a human group searching for supplies. The humans open fire, but some of the zombies are too quick. R managed to kill a young man named Perry (Dave Franco), and as he is eating his brains he sees Perry’s girlfriend, Julie (Teresa Palmer) and falls in love at first sight. R kidnaps Julie, yet saves her life by smearing blood on her face to mask her scent to the other zombies. Terrified for her life and reeling from the grief of losing her boyfriend, Julie tries to run away from R, but he saves her again from the zombie pack. Julie slowly warms to R and realizes that there is more to him than just the stiff bodied, grunting zombie. Over the course of a few days,  Julie and R develop a friendship, but supplies are running low for Julie and she needs to get home before the Bonies discover her.

At an overnight stop, R confesses to Julie about what actually happened to Perry, and she leaves him in the middle of the night. R realizes that Julie is bringing on exponential change within him and that there may be a cure for what the condition is. He must find Julie before she ends up as a meal for a zombie or a bonie.

Every once in a while, a film comes along reviving the interest in a certain type of genre, completely breaking the mold in terms of entertainment, storytelling and audience interest. Director Jonathan Levine does a phenomenal job bringing the popular graphic novel "Warm Bodies" to life. With any book to screen transition,  there's bound to be differences but Levine's take on the story is unique, refreshing and is able to command the audience's attention with the musical selections of the soundtrack combined with the self deprecating internal dialogue of the story's protagonist, R. The story is almost philosophical in nature, posing many questions that can be debated about well after the film ends. Some parts of the film do resemble part of beloved stories, like “Romeo & Juliet” or “Wall-e”, but with the many layers of the film, it all works. The film is engaging and will make the viewer hungry for more after the credits roll. Be sure to check out “Warm Bodies” when in opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday February 1, 2013.

Movie Review for Stand Up Guys

Stand Up Guys   

Starring: Al Pacino, Alan Arkin, Christopher Walken, Julianna Margulies, Mark Margolis

Directed by Fisher Stevens

Rated: R

Run Time: 100 mins

Genre: Comedy/ Crime

Opens February 1st 

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

When you see the names Alan Arkin, Al Pacino and Christopher Walken put together, you may think that A). What award are they nominated for? B) Now that is a stellar cast. What’s this movie I must see? Or C) This must be a really dark & crazy movie, must be incredible.

If you chose option B, please read on. Actor turned Director Fisher Stevens leads the way for the three legendary actors in the crime buddy comedy “Stand Up Guys”.  After spending 28 years locked up in the joint, Valentine, his friends call him “Val” (Al Pacino), is looking to pickup the party and rock the town. Trouble is although his mind may be 28 years younger, everyone else’s bodies and habits have aged. Val’s best friend Doc (Christopher Walken) is there to greet him as he enters back into real life. What Doc has become does not become of Val. Doc's humble abode does not meet Val’s “exquisite” tastes. First stop post jail is to see a hooker, which was short lived. Next stop is to awaken dormant talents that Doc retired from ears before (aka breaking and entering) to score some medical grade pharmaceuticals. Val is hell bent on getting back into the swing of things although his body may not let him.

Humoring Val, Doc goes along with his antics as he has a darker deed hanging over his head. Crime boss Claphands (Mark Margolis) has put a hit on Val and tasked Doc with the dreadful deed. He has until 10 am the next morning to deliver the package or else a darker fate will be issued to him. With a no-holds attitude, Doc and Val pay their old getaway driver Hirsch (Alan Arkin) a visit and spring him from his own hellish prison, the retirement home. With the boys back together,  they pick up where they left off as if 28 years have not passed, having an action packed night filled with crime, sex and a whole lot of excitement. Will the men be able to last until dawn? Will Doc be able to carry out the hit against his best friend or suffer an even more dire consequence?

At first glance, the three lead actors together look like it will be a stellar film. Yet the first 15 minutes into the first “reel”, the dialogue is choppy, the plot uneven and takes a while to get going. The amount of talent in this film is undeniable, but it was under utilized with lack of development, shoddy editing and possibly writing. There are some genuinely funny moments that will bring a laugh or two, but they are spaced far in-between. Alan Arkin’s character was certainly cut short on screen time and would have been intriguing to see more of the dynamic between the three men. It seemed like it was trying too hard to be like “Bucket List” with a touch of “The Godfather”. Older audiences will appreciate the humor and situations the men find their mature selves in. Check out “Stand Up Guys” when it opens in theaters starting Friday February 1, 2013.

Bullet to the Head Movie Review

Bullet to the Head   

Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Momoa, Christian Slater, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Sung Kang, John Seda, Ronnie Earl

Directed by Walter Hill

Rated: R

Run Time: 91 mins

Genre: Action/ Crime/ Thriller

Opens February 1^st

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans! There is a few new released we checked out this week, one of them being “Bullet to the Head” starring Sylvester Stallone, Sug Kang and Christian Slater. Stallone shows no signs of slowing down in this gritty crime/action film and has had plenty of behind the scenes drama. Christian Slater has come out of a long hiatus to make an appearance in the film, being the first film he’s has a major theatrical role since 2005. Speaking of those who’ve had some time away from the set, this is Director Walter Hill’s first film in 10 years, so it’s fascinating to see how the final product comes out.

James Bonomo (Sylvester Stallone) and Louis Blanchard (Jon Seda) have been partners in crime, so to say, for the past 6 years. Their last hit together was on a crooked D.C. cop, Hank Greely (Holt McCallany), a man in many of the local crime syndicates pockets.  Shortly after the job was complete, Blanchard was taken out by a local mercenary Keegan (Jasin Momoa).  Bonomo was unable to take down Keegan and got to Blanchard before it was too late.

The next morning, another D.C. cop rolls into town, to verify the identity of Hank Greely. Officer Taylor Kwon (Sung Kang) was Greely’s partner before he went rogue, so his main focus is to find the person(s) responsible for the hit.  Kwon’s arrival in Baton Rouge was not a welcoming sight for the local law enforcement as many of the local authorities are in with local crime boss/ real estate mogul Robert Nkomo Morel (Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje) and Marcus Baptiste (Christian Slater). The power over the city is up for grabs and Morel and Baptiste are salivating for the chance to take over.

Kwon’s life is in danger and Bonomo has come to his aid at the perfect moment. Although the two men have a strong dislike for each other, they must work together to find why Blanchard and Greely both had hits put out on their lives. The same people are now after Bonomo and Kwon, and they have very little time to find the men responsible before another loved one’s live is placed in danger, Bonomo’s daughter Lisa (Sarah Shahi).

If you’re looking for masterpiece theater type of film, you’re certainly in the wrong review. Using the same platform "The Expendables" is cut from, Stallone takes the same character type from the aforementioned film, dresses him down in a bad thug suit and has a cop for a partner. Only as Bonomo, he has more oriental zingers and clever one-liners aimed at his intended targets. What can be seen as just another Stallone action film, is actually a slow-to-start crime thriller that is pretty entertaining, and is aptly named “Bullet to the Head” as the unspoken character that chases Bonomo though the movie in most of his interactions with fellow lawbreakers. For someone as old as he is (67 years old?!), Stallone appears to be in terrific shape and still can bring it as an action star. If you’re a fan of The Expendables, you’ll whet your appetite for the big bang, blow-em-up action movies until the next one hits theaters. “Bullet to the Head” opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday February 1, 2013.

Movie Review for Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters

Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters   

Starring: Jeremy Renner, Gemma Arterton, Famke Janssen

Directed by Tommy Wirkola

Rated: R

Run Time: 88 mins

Genre: Action/ Fanatsy/ Horror

Opens January 25^th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans!  The Horror/ Sci-Fi crowd should be excited for this weekend’s release of the modern retelling of the fairy tale “Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters”. Horror Fans should be doubly please that it walks away with an R rating, so keep the kids home for this one.

Everyone knows the Brothers Grimm fairy tale; Hansel and Gretel find a cannibalistic witch’s house in the woods made out of every sweet & delectable treat imaginable. They are captured by the freaky witch but escape from her clutches. In the fairy tale, the children merely escape by their wits, but in this film, they obliterate the crazy witch, burning her to death. Thus, the Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters are made.

Fast forward “many years later”, the children have grown into strong, independent vigilantes, making a name for themselves in the world of bounty hunting. A mayor of a small town hired Hansel (Jeremy Renner) and Gretel (Gemma Arterton) to find a slew of children that have gone missing. Everyone is on high alert, especially the Sheriff Berringer (Peter Stormare) who is about to kill one of the town’s women, Mina (Pihla Viitala) accusing her of witchcraft. Hansel quickly assesses Mina, determining she’s not a witch, setting her free.

It seems like Hansel and Gretel have a small fan club in the town found in a young man named Ben (Thomas Mann). He desperately wants to become a witch hunter, but he’s blown off by the duo. As Hansel and Gretel begin their search for the children, they come across unsettling information. They have three nights to find the children, or else on the night of the “Blood Moon” they will be sacrificed by the dark magic witches led by the evil witch Muriel (Famke Janssen) for a spell giving them unlimited powers, especially over Hansel and Gretel.

Muriel claims that Gretel is an intricate part of her evil plan, but neither witch hunter knows why. Now they are in a race against time to figure out their forgotten past, save the children and defeat Muriel. Can they do it?

Out of all the fairy tale “reimagining” over the past few years, compared to other films such as “Red Riding Hood” and Snow White and the Huntsman”, “Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters” certainly takes the cake over the aforementioned films for a few reasons. First it delves into its dark roots and exploits them for all it’s worth. There is no shortage of violence, gore or guts, and it’s unapologetic for the copious amounts of blood and guts. The film’s run time is an appropriate length, clocking in at 88 minutes, the perfect amount of time to tell the story and entertain the crowd.  The witches in this film are laughable to look for the ridiculous make-up application at but come across quite creepy in their movements and mannerisms. The lead actors were great choices to place in these roles as they are known but known, but their celebrity doesn’t overshadow the roles or the entire film because they can actually do a decent job of acting. If you’re a horror film fan, this film is a fun ride because although it is campy and ridiculous, it does have a serious side but gives the film enough balance where it’s entertaining if you go into it not expecting much.  Check out Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters when it opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday January 25, 2013.

Movie Review for The Last Stand

The Last Stand   

Starring:  Arnold Schwarzenegger, Forest Whitaker, Johnny Knoxville, Luis Guzmán, Jaimie Alexander, Zach Gilford, Rodrigo Santoro, Genesis Rodriguez, Eduardo Noriega, Pete Stormare

Directed by Jee-won Kim

Rated: R

Run Time: 107 mins

Genre: Action/ Crime/ Thriller

Opens January 18^th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film Fans! This week we checked out the latest Arnold Schwarzenegger film, “The Last Stand” directed by Jee-woon Kim. This is Schwarzenegger’s first leading film since 2003’s “Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines”, so the question beckons, Does the Governator still have what it takes to be an action hero?

When third generation Mexican Drug Cartel leader Gabriel Cortez (Eduardo Noriega) manages to escape a highly guarded prison transfer under FBI Custody, a massive manhunt begins all before sunrise. FBI Agent John Bannister (Forest Whitaker) is the lead agent in charge of the transfer gone wrong, and when one of his own agents, Agent Ellen Richards is kidnapped by Cortez, he vows to find the fugitive and make him pay dearly. The hunt starts off in Las Vegas where Cortez’s get away vehicle is a truly impressive, supped up Corvette ZR1 with speeds capable of traveling up to 250 miles per hour. Every blockade Cortez has been able to blow through, evading the authorities at every attempt at capture. Bannister’s team figures that they have less than 4 hours before Cortez reaches the US/ Mexican boarder. If they are unsuccessful in arresting Cortez, the consequences may be deadly. They managed to narrow down the escape route to two small Arizona towns,one of them being Sommerton Junction.

Twenty four hours earlier, on his day off, sheriff of Sommerton Junction, Sherrif Ray Owens (Arnold Schwarzenegger) has planned out a relaxing day. Plans changed when he notices two men in the main street diner and his super-Spidey lawman senses kicked in, and questions one of the men, Burell (Pete Stormare) about their rig parked out on the street. The two men leave quickly, so he gets his deputies to run the plates of the truck. When the plates come back clean, Sherriff Owens goes on with his day but still seems unsettled with the encounter with the men from the diner. His fears are confirmed hours later when he receives an early morning wake up call from the FBI warning of a fugitive heading towards the border.  Cortez’s men have been working in his escape route on the outskirts of Sommerton and have eliminated anyone that tried to get in the way. Unable to rely on the feds for any help, Sherriff Owens along with a few of his deputies take matters into their own hands to defend their town, and their oath to serve and protect.

Although it’s been 10 years since Schwarzenegger has starred in a leading role, he can still bring the entertainment factor in his old age. This film knows exactly what it is and makes no apologies for the corny dialogue, over-acting and gratuitous violence that helped make Schwarzenegger famous in the 1980’s & 1990’s. The bright spots of the film are the supporting characters which help alleviate the action scenes from landing squarely on Schwarzenegger’s shoulders. The cinematography of the car chase scenes are quite impressive as are the cars used in the film. This is a pure adrenaline, throwback action film that shows that Arnold can still bring it even though he’s “getting too old for this”. Check out “The Last Stand” when it opens in theaters starting Friday January 18, 2012.

Movie Review for Gangster Squad

Gangster Squad   

Starring: Sean Penn, Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Giovanni Ribisi, Nick Nolte, Anthony Mackie, Michael Pena, Robert Patrick

Directed by Ruben Fleischer

Rated: R

Run Time: 113 mins

Genre: Drama/ Crime/ Action

Opens January 11^th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film fans! Opening this week is the highly anticipated film “Gangster Squad” starring Sean Penn, Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling and Emma stone. If you recall the release date was originally scheduled for last summer but was pushed back after scene depicting violence in a movie theater was pulled from the final cut and had to be re-shot.

Inspired by a true story, the backdrop of the film is set in Los Angeles circa 1949. Gangster Mickey Cohen (Sean Penn) moved west from Chicago, claiming the city of angels as his town. War hero and now L.A.P.D. Sgt. John O’Mara (Josh Brolin) is a rare type of law man; he’s been able to withstand the temptation of being bought off by Cohen’s gang or any other type of criminal. Instead, he hunts them down renegade style, which lands him frequently in hot water with his department Police Chief.  O’Mara refused to stand by and look the other way while corruption and mayhem over take the city he loves.

O’Mara’s antics eventually caught the eye of the Los Angeles Police Commissioner, Chief Parker (Nick Nolte), who recruits him to form his own secret unit to take the city back from Cohen and any other criminal causing havoc. He is allowed to choose anyone he wants provided everything is kept off the books. Sgt. O’Mara accepts and with the help of his wife, carefully selects the men who will help bring down Cohen’s crime syndicate. His first choice is Sgt. Jerry Wooters (Ryan Gosling), a man who knows the city like an Indian Guide. Sgt. Wooters declines as he wants nothing to do with Cohen until he falls for the mobster’s latest arm candy, Grace Faraday (Emma Stone). The rest of the team is made of the best of the best renegades. From the colored force is a man who has real talent with a knife, Officer Coleman Harris (Anthony Mackie); a man that is the fast gun west of the Mississippi, Officer Max Kennard (Robert Patrick); former military intelligence, Officer Conway Keeler (Giovanni Ribisi) and the dark horse contender by way of default (he is Officer Kennard’s trainee), Officer Navidad Ramirez (Michael Peña).

Needless to say, the first couple of sting operations didn't go as well as they thought, but once they found their in by means of putting a bug in Cohen’s home, they were on  winning steak. The more they intercepted Cohen’s men, the angrier Cohen would become. They need to take down Cohen before he discovers their real identities but with the amount of people the mobster has on his payroll, each day that passes puts each man and their loved ones in grave danger.

This film was an intriguing choice for Director Ruben Fleischer (Zombieland) to take on as his background is heavily comedy concentrated. From the first scene of Sean Penn up at the Hollywoodland sign, torturing a man who questioned Mickey Cohen’s authority, the viewer is taken on an incredulous, violence filled journey through the streets ofLos Angeles, in a film noir style. Although the violence is quite prevalent and showcased throughout the film, it is strangely mixed with comedic elements, taking it from what could be an exceptionally strong, gritty crime drama such as “L.A. Confidential” but interlaces the comedic element bringing a “Dick Tracy” feel to the film. With one of the pivotal scenes having to be re shot after the theater shooting tragedy, I wonder how much of the film had to be re-cut to make it less harrowing? The performances were quite compelling to watch, but the way the film swings from serious to comedic, almost cheapens the message and heart of the story – a war hero trying to do right for his family, city and country by making hard choices to eliminate evil. The set design, costumes, props and dialogue are spot on for the era which is rather enjoyable to watch. Be sure to check “Gangster Squad” out when it opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday January 10, 2013.

Zero Dark Thirty Movie Review

Zero Dark Thirty    

Starring: Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Kyle Chandler, Joel Edgerton, Mark Duplass, James Gandolfini, Chris Pratt, Taylor Kinney

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow

Rated: R

Run Time: 157 mins

Genre: Drama/ Thriller

Opens January 4^th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Chances are, even if you are not one to follow the headlines of the day, you probably have heard of the name Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks. In her latest film, Director Kathryn Bigelow (The Hurt Locker, Point Break) brings audiences the accounts of how one of the world’s most wanted men was taken down by US Navy SEAL Team 6 and the CIA operative who found him. Due to the sensitive nature of the film, names of the actual operatives were changed to protect true identities.

Everyone should be familiar by this point of the event of 9/11 as the film opens with the chilling phone recordings of people trapped inside the World Trade Center Towers speaking to emergency responder operators or leaving messages for loved ones. Two years after 9/11, CIA Operative "Maya" was sent to a CIA Black Site for interrogation of a man known to have funded one of the 9/11 hijackers, Ammar (Reda Kateb). Interrogation of Ammar was led by senior CIA Operative “Dan” (Jason Clarke) which some of the interrogation methods included waterboarding, sensory & sleep deprivation, humiliation and confining isolation.

Maya and Dan knew that Ammar was part of the Saudi Group, which had been behind other terrorist attacks, but through this interrogation they first heard of a man that was known among the circuit out to be a courier for UBL, Abu Ahmed.  After conducting several other interrogations of other known detainees, over and over again, Abu Ahmed’s name was mentioned as the guy who brought UBL his messages to the outside world. But the problem is that no one knew how to find Abu Ahmed, where he lived or how to contact him; he always found you.

Convinced this was the key to finding bin Ladin, Maya grabbed on to this lead, following her instincts when so many events and people are trying to lead her astray. Finally, a break in search of Abu Ahmed opens the lead wide up, giving Maya the leverage needed to go after him full force.

This is a fascinating story as the main raid event took place only a little over 18 months ago.   Since that time, there was a book released on the operation by one of the Seal team 6 members and this film. Director Kathryn Bigelow does a fantastic job taking the audience on this frustrating, heart- pounding journey keeping the integrity of the characters at the forefront. Jessica Chastian was riveting in this role as it is quite different seeing her as a stoic, hard-ass operative going up against the boys club in the Federal Government Investigative departments. This is not her best role but makes it memorable in her own way, keeping the humanistic element in the forefront. How does this compare with Bigelow's other war film, "The Hurt Locker"? If choosing between the two, I would say "Hurt Locker" is the better of the two because it's less predictable, but "Zero Dark Thirty" is a stand out film that will leave viewer on the edge of their seat right up to the very end. Be sure to check out Zero Dark Thirty in time for awards season as it is already nominated for a bunch of Golden Globes and most likely for the Oscars as well. “Zero Dark Thirty” opens in Phoenix starting Friday January 4, 2013 and going to a wide release January 11th.

Movie Review for Promised Land

Promised Land Starring: Matt Damon, John Krasinski, Frances McDormand

Directed by: Gus Van Sant

Rated: R Run  Time: Genre: Drama

Opens January 4th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Happy New Year Phoenix Film Fans!  In this week's new release, "Promised Land", Matt Damon reunites with his Good Will Hunting Director Gus Van Sant, but this time around has a different writing/ acting partner found in John Krasinski.

Fracking. What is it other than a weird looking substitute for a curse word? Steve Butler (Matt Damon) works for a company that has been buying up land all over rural America to operate Fracking machines to draw natural gas up from the sedimentary layers from the Earth. Steve grew up in a small town so he certainly can identify with the people he has been visiting and honing in on their mindset, fears and wishes. In his company, he and his partner Sue Thomason (Frances McDormand) are the top team, making him a front runner for an exceptionally sweet position in upper management, which has potentially landed Steve a gigantic fat raise.

That is until they reach Miller Falls, Pennsylvania. Steve knows by looking at the demographics, this should be an open & shut case, but after meeting with a few of the towns leaders, Steve is in for a big surprise. One of the high school teachers worked for a number years at Boeing and knows a thing or two about Fracking. Before Steve & Sue arrived, Frank Yates (Hal Holbrook) was able to turn half the town against the team, warning them about the potential dangers to the land and their health.

As if dealing with a former rocket scientist wasn't enough, a mysterious environmentalist, Dustin Noble (John Krasinski) arrives in town  further hindering Steve's & Sue's efforts to get people to sell their land. Depending on how well Steve performs in Miller Falls is dependent on whether or not Steve gets the promotion at corporate. The only one that Steve can turn to is a local girl, Alice (Rosemarie DeWitt) whom his feeling run deeper than they should. Can Steve put his feelings aside to complete the job or will the challengers get the best of him?

Despite the timely message, this film is one that lacks originality and freshness. It seemed like this was more of a mashup between "Erin Brockovich" & "Good Will Hunting", both being excellent films. This film has all the elements of an Oscar-esq film; the cast was terrific, the direction and locations, great; the performances & topic, all good; it's just lacking that certain spark that would make it an excellent film. What this film does well is staying pretty center of taking any political or controversial sides, playing both sides evenly; neither is good or bad per se, just presents the topic in such a way that it leaves it open for discussion after the film. There is a twist in the plot that was actually quite savvy about 20-30 minutes left of the film that is brilliant that it makes up for the rest of the films blandness. Check out Promised Land when it opens in Phoenix area theaters starting Friday January 4, 2013.

Parental Guidance Movie Review

Parental Guidance   

Starring: Billy Crystal, Bette Midler, Marisa Tomei, Tom Everett Scott, Bailee Madison, Joshua Rush, Kyle Harrison Brietkopf

Directed by Andy Fickman

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 104 mins

Genre: Comedy

Opens December 25^th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Happy Holidays Phoenix Film Fans! If you’re looking for a film to go see after all the presents have been opened, opening in theaters Christmas Day is family friendly film “Parental Guidance” starring Billy Crystal, Bette Midler, Marisa Tomei, Tom Everett Scott and Bailee Madison.

Artie Decker (Billy Crystal) loves his job. For the past few decades,  he has been the announcer for a minor league baseball game, and when the team decides to take the league in a new direction, Artie’s old-school ways just don’t fit with the new attitude and mindset of the audience. Not knowing what to do next, Artie is lost, and his wife Diane (Bette Midler) suggest maybe it’s time to slow things down and retire.

The timing for the “retirement” couldn’t have come at a better time as their daughter Alice (Marisa Tomei) and her husband Phil (Tom Everett Scott) need to go out of town for a business trip for an award Phil was nominated. Every other source they usually call on to watch their three kids were unavailable so although it was a tough call forAliceto make to her parents, they were (Diane more than Artie) overjoyed to make the trip fromCaliforniatoGeorgia. Once they arrive, they realize that they are the “other grandparents”, the ones that see their grandkids once a year and whom the kids barely know. This is heartbreaking for Diane, and she is determined that this week they will be known as the favorite grandparents, dethroning Phil’s parents from the reigning title holders.

Alice and Phil’s way of parenting are vastly different from the way Alice was raised by her parents, so Artie and Diane are just as confused by the new ways of “parenting” as the technology that runs Alice’s household. The children are products of the over communicative, over protective parenting and are not the easiest to manage, even by old-school standards. Will Artie and Diane be able to survive the week or will Alice’s over bearing, over protective tendencies take over and ruin the entire trip?

What starts off slow and corny, builds to a pretty decent movie with a great message that is timely, endearing and full of corny, yet family appropriate laughs. The role as aging sports announcer Artie, Billy Crystal plays with old school comedy schtick which takes a while to readjust to as the comedy as of late is usually more offensive, awkward and self depreciating; it felt like watching an old comedy from the 1950’s- 1960’s. The role did play on some of Crystal’s real life interests such as baseball and comedy which made the character a tad more authentic and less cartoonish. The rest of the cast was enjoyable, but Marisa Tomei went borderline obnoxious as the overprotective parent. Overall an enjoyable family film to take the kids over the holiday break. “Parental Guidance” opens in theaters nationwide starting Christmas Day Tuesday December 25, 2012.

Django Unchained Movie Review

Django Unchained   Starring: Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz,  Leonardo DiCaprio, Samuel L. Jackson, Kerry Washington, Don Johnson

Directed by Quentin Tarantino

Rated: R Run Time: 165 mins Genre: Drama/ Western

Opens December 25th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com After the success of Inglorious Bastards, can Quentin Tarantino captivate audiences once more with his violent spaghetti western DJANGO unchained?

Set in 1858, we are introduced to Django as he's part of a chain gang, just sold at market and traveling to a new owner. Along the way, the caravan is intercepted by a traveling dentist, Dr. King Schultz (Christoph Waltz) and his horse Fritz. Dr. Schultz has recently traded in his dental tools for that of legal papers, in the form of a warrant/ bounty and tracks down wanted men dead or alive.  The pay is good, and Dr. King is in need of a certain slave that holds the key to finding his latest bounty. When Dr. King finds Django, he purchases him from the slaver holders, then setting him free on the spot, but with a condition.  One he finds& captures his latest target, the. Django is a free man and may go his separate way. Django, bewildered by the offer accepts, thus going down into Texas to find 3 men that used to serve on the same plantation that he was sold from.

They find the men on a plantation owned by a man nicknamed "Big Daddy" (Don Johnson).  While Dr. Schultz is touring the home with Big Daddy, Django finds the three men and out of a fit of rage, kills them all.  The taste for blood and revenge has been whet, and now he wants more. Dr. Schultz makes an offer to Django; work with him for the winter and he can have a cut of the bounty and he will help find Django's wife, who was sold the same time as Django.

He agrees, and over the winter months, becomes more skilled in the realm of bounty hunting. They discover during that time that Django's wife Broomhilda (Kerry Washington) was sold to one of the largest plantations in Mississippi, Candieland, owned by the eccentric Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio).  Together the men devise a plan that if all works in their favor, they will have saved Broomhilda and given the lovers their freedom.  Upon arriving in Mississippi, the execution of their grand plan becomes riskier with each person they encounter, especially the head house slave, Stephen (Samuel L. Jackson).  Stephen and Django are too much alike, so they immediately hate each other, making the situation even more challenging. Will they be able to save Broomhilda and gain their freedom or die trying?

This film follows the typical Tarantino formula: lots of violence, lots of witty, clever dialogue that drags on, a musical selection from the 1970's and excessive foul language.  It's almost comical how you can time the pacing of the film to figure out how much longer the film has left as it follows the same pacing as inglorious Bastards.  Christoph Waltz is phenomenal in the Dr. Strauss role as it is a psychopath with a heart of gold. Jamie Foxx plays the same old role as he does in his other action films, the cocky, arrogant hero that has no regard for anyone else and gets the girl in the end.  Leonard DiCaprio was excellent in his role s evil plantation owner Calvin Candie, showing a side that is a mix of compassion, ridicule, bully and evil business man.  Even Samuel L Jackson has tamed himself down a few notches and is not as scream heavy butt slings just as much n words as the next guy.  What lost me was after awhile, I started to count how many times the "n" word is used, losing interest in the scene.  Although this film covers a dark time in America's history, much of it was hard to watch, either from violence or vicious, cruel treatment of the slaves. Overall, "Django Unchained" is entertaining but not as good as “Inglorious Bastards”. Check out Django Unchained when it opens in theaters nationwide Christmas Day Tuesday December 21, 2012.

Movie Review for Les Misérables

Les Misérables   

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfreid, Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter, Eddie Redmayne, Samantha Barks

Directed by Tom Hooper

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 157 mins

Genre: Drama/ Musical/ Romance

Opens December 25^th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Based on the book by Victor Hugo, Les Misérables first found fame on stages inLondon, Broadway and eventually all over the world. So whenHollywoodcame a calling, Academy Award winning director Tom Hooper (The King’s Speech) took on the challenge of bringing the beloved stage musical and translating on screen for a new audience.

For those not familiar with the story, it begins in 1815 with prisoner #24601, Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman), a man who spent 19 year in jail for stealing a loaf of bread to feed a family member. He is being release on parole, and the man in charge of his release is Inspector Javert (Russell Crowe), a man who takes the law and follows it to the letter. He warns Valjean if he does not report in, it is a violation of his parole.  Valjean ends up evading the law for parole violation for 9 years where he rebuilds his life and ends up the mayor of a small French town outside ofParis.

Valjean also runs a factory where one of the workers, Fantine (Anne Hathaway) is being harassed and accused of being a horrible woman because she has kept her daughter secret from the other women workers. This information is turned over to the foreman who fires Fantine, leaving her desperate and desolate. With nowhere else to turn, Fantine turns to body mutilation and prostitution, where she falls ill and is eventually rescued by Jean Valjean. She begs Valjean to provide for her daughter Cosette, and he vows to provide and care for the child as if she was his own. Valjean honors this vow and rescues the girl from horrid living conditions from where she was held.

As the years pass,Valjean and Javert 's paths continually cross; the world around them changes, as do all the relationships of the people that surround them. The times are uncertain, but the only certainty in life is finding and giving love.

If there ever was a way to bring a Broadway show to the silver screen, this is the way to do it. Although it is challenging to capture the essence of what a live performance would do, the film version by Director Tom Hooper brings the beloved Broadway musical to life. It is fascinating that the film does not have any spoken dialogue, but sang by each character through out the entire film. Fans of the play it will be pleased with what has been done, but it is a great way to be introduced to the program if you have not seen the live stage performance. Anne Hathaway reaches such an emotional, gut-wrenching depth in her role as Fantine. Viewers of the film can feel the anguish that she feels for her daughter's absence. Sasha Baron Cohen and Helena Bonham Carter are perfectly casting the roles of the inn keepers as they steal the show in every scene they are featured. The two male leads were interesting to watch as they have played similar roles but not in a musical film. Hugh Jackman is unrecognizable when he appears in his first scene, going on to deliver a powerful performance as Jean Valjean and balancing the aggressive, stoic role of Javert played by Russell Crowe.  Keep this one locked in view for your Oscar pools as Anne Hathaway and Hugh Jackman are shoo-ins for nominations.  Les Misérables opens in theaters nationwide starting Christmas Day Tuesday December 25, 2012.

Movie Review for Jack Reacher

Jack Reacher    

Starring: Tom Cruise, Richard Jenkins, Rosamund Pike, David Oyelowo

Directed by Christopher McQuarrie

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 130 mins

Genre: Action/ Crime/ Thriller

Opens December 21^st

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

If you're looking for an action movie to take him this weekend before the Christmas holiday opening in theaters, “Jack Reacher”, a film based on the book “One Shot” by Lee Child, starring Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike, Richard Jenkins and David Oyelowo.

When a sniper shooting takes six innocent lives, the city of Pittsburgh is put on high alert. The police quickly they find the man they suspect as the killer. When in custody, the suspect is under pressure from the lead investigator and District Attorney to confess or be put to death. They put a notepad in front of the suspect to write out his confession. He reaches for the notepad and instead of writing a confession, he writes GET JACK REACHER. Who exactly is Jack Reacher?  Jack Reacher (Tom Cruise) is a bit of a ghost; he has no records on file other than his military papers. He has no priors, no bank accounts, no cell phone, no address; he is a ghost.  When the District Attorney Rodin (Richard Jenkins) and Lead Police Investigator Det. Emerson (David Oyleowo) figure out where to start in trying to find Reacher, he just appears.  Seems that Reacher caught a clip on the nightly news about the shooting and is also is trying to figure out the pieces of the case. The suspect, Barr first encountered Reacher when he was serving in Iraq, so if anyone was ever going to figure out the case and clear his name, it would be Reacher.

The attorney covering Barr’s case is the D.A’s daughter Helen Rodin (Rosamund Pike), and she begs Reacher to be an investigator for her team. Reacher eventually agrees, and the deeper he digs into the details of the case, the more complications arise for him.  The crime scene was just about perfect except for the fact that the killer paid the meter before the shooting spree. That one piece doesn't fit the puzzle. When word reaches the true killer, who is part of a larger crime syndicate, the word is put out to eliminate Reacher.  Will Reacher be able to solve the case, clear Barr’s name and reveal the true criminals before it is too late?

If you’ve seen one Tom Cruise film, there are no real surprises going into “Jack Reacher”. What this film resembles is a combination of “Missing Impossible”, “Knight and Day” and any other type of big-budget action flick that he's been involved in.  The only difference is that it's smart, clever, and there's more humor then you would expect. Fans of the book “One Shot” in the Jack Reacher style series will be happy to know that the film does stay close to the book and keeps the essence of the character intact. There is quite a bit of violence, so with the recent events happening those who are more sensitive may want to hold off on seeing this, but otherwise if you're a fan of action films or a fan of the books, you will enjoy this film. “Jack Reacher” opens nationwide starting Friday, December 21, 2012

This is 40 Movie Review

This is 40   

Starring:  Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Maude Apatow, Iris Apatow, Jason Segel, Megan Fox, Albert Brooks

Directed by Judd Apatow

Rated: R

Run Time: 134 mins

Genre: Comedy

Opens December 21st

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

There comes in time in every adults life when you realize that the candles on your cake keep increasing, your body starts going through the next phase of change, but your mind hasn’t quite caught up to the age of your body? In Judd Apatow’s latest film, he brings back the gang (some of them) from Knocked Up – the family made up of Pete, Debbie and their girls Charlotte and Sadie a few years older, maybe a little wiser but still trying to figure life and relationships out with a sense of humor.

On the morning of Debbie’s (Leslie Mann) 40^th a.k.a. 38^th birthday, her husband Pete (Paul Rudd) and daughters Charlotte (Iris Apatow) and Sadie (Maude Apatow) surprise her with cake, breakfast and gifts, but she is in no mood for celebrating. She realizes that now that she’s the big 4-0, everything about their lives has to change – their diets, lifestyle and relationships with each other. Debbie wants to be closer to Pete and the girls, so she limits electronics and internet usage, which send Sadie into a tails spin. Pete’s birthday is a few days later, which a massive birthday party is in the works, which he is thrilled about.

In their daily lives, Pete runs a small record label, and Debbie owns a small boutique, both which are struggling financially. Their accountant informs Pete that they need to sell their house if they want to get back on their feet. With the businesses struggling and Pete giving money to his unemployed father, bills are being not paid or severely late.  Pete tries hiding this from Debbie because he has a plan – in a last ditch effort, he will promote his latest client’s new album, and if they sell at least 625,000 copies they will be fine financially.

With all the pressures of business, the kids, family and friends Pete and Debbie take a quick overnight trip to Laguna to unwind and reconnect. The trip was exactly what they needed, but upon arriving home, the problems multiplied quickly with no clear solution in sight. When Debbie ends up pregnant, their relationship is in a fragile state and with all the mounting problems in other areas of their lives, can Debbie and Pete keep it together or will they be starting their 40’s as divorcees?

For those thinking that this is going to be a sequel to the 2007 hit “Knocked Up”, you’re kinda right. This film is more like an offshoot or character study of the family from “Knocked Up”. Apatow shines light on the next phase of aging – middle age and does it with a sense of humor and a strong dose of honesty. For those approaching 40 or those who are past that age mile marker, this film and the character’s journey may be more relatable than a Judd Apatow fan thinking this is going to be like "Knocked Up" or "40 Year Old Virgin". In typical Apatow fashion, it’s full of awkward moments, bodily humor, some drug use and runs about 30 minutes too long. The cameos were fantastic; watch for music legend Graham Parker, John Lithgow, Lena Dunham, Michael Ian Black, Chris O’Dowd and the always fabulous Melissa McCarthy. Check out “This is 40” when it opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday December 21, 2012.

Movie Review for Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away

Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away   

Starring: Erica Linz, Igor Zaripov

Directed by Andrew Adamson

Rated: PG

Run Time: 91 mins

Genre: Fantasy/ 3D Film

Opens December 21st

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

What do you get when you team up one of the most successful directors of all time, but as a producer, another Academy Award nominated director and the equivalent of a modern day circus? The million dollar answer is… "Cirque du Soleil: Worlds Away", brought to you from Executive Producer James Cameron (Titanic, Avatar) and Director Andrew Adamson (Shrek, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the witch and the Wardrobe). Using the ever popular 3D format of filming, Cameron and Adamson wanted to give the gift this holiday season, of experiencing Cirque du Soleil in a way that allows the audience to experience all the flips, bends, spins, fire stunts and body contorting in an up-close and personal way.

When a young woman, Mia (Erica Linz) wanders into a circus that has set up shop in town, various sideshow performers and circus folk keep pointing her in the direction of the Big Top, where The Aerialist (Igor Zaripov) is about to perform. Along the way she catches a young man’s eye and its love at first sight, so imagine her surprise when she sees The Aerialist, recognizing him as the man from before. The Aerialist, unfocused from the sight of Mia, ends up missing the swinging trapeze and falls to the ground below swallowing him whole. Mia jumps out of her seat jumps down the hole in an attempt to save The Aerialist.

When she gathers her bearings, she realizes she has been transported to a stranger circus world set up like a traveling caravan.  From tent to tent she wanders, encountering a more strange yet magical world than the previous in attempts to find The Aerialist, her true love.

If you have never been able to attend a Cirque du Soleil performance, this is an impressive sampling of 7 of their Las Vegas shows: “O”, "Viva Elvis"," KÀ", "The Beatles - Love", "Zumanity",  "Mystère" and "Criss Angel Believe". Although nothing can replace the thrill of seeing a live performance, this is a terrific introduction to the world of Cirque and is worth the 3D price of admission to experience. “CdS: Worlds Apart” is an Alice in Wonderland like adventure that conjures up the magic, wonder, excitement and thrills that Cirque du Soleil is famous for.  Be sure to check it out when it opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday December 21, 2012.

Movie Review for The Guilt Trip

The Guilt Trip  

Starring: Barbara Streisand, Seth Rogen,

Directed by Anne Fletcher

Rated:  PG-13

Run Time: 95 mins

Genre: Comedy

Opens December 19th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

With less than two weeks to go for the 2012 movie release schedule, here is a comedy that doesn’t quite fit the typical holiday release film type.  Director Ann Fletcher brings together a quirky, yet witty cast of characters, with the most intriguing pairing of mother and son in Barbara Streisand and Seth Rogen.

Andrew Brewster (Seth Rogen) is a former FDA scientist who has developed the cleanest of cleaning solutions and is trying to sell the product to the masses. Every meeting he has had so far has been less than lucrative, so to give it one final attempt as he’s running out of money, he plans a road trip starting on the East Coast and ending up in Las Vegas to visit every consumer distributor of household goods he can fit in.  Andrew’s mother Joyce (Barbara Streisand) is his biggest fan, constantly encouraging him and dishing out the motherly guilt in heaps. Andrew stays with his mother while on the first stop of his trip where he learns about his mother’s first love, the man whom he was named after, but wasn’t his father. It breaks his heart to see his mother lonely, so he is determined to find the original Andrew and play a little matchmaker.

Once Andrew learns that Andrew Margolis (the original Andy) lives in San Francisco, he devises a plan to bring his mother along on his road trip and swing up towards the city by the bay to see if there are any sparks left between the two ex-lovers.  Unbeknownst to Joyce, she enthusiastically agrees to join Andrew on the trip, and they proceed on a cross-country journey that will change their relationship forever.

In this road trip comedy, much of the mother/ son relationship story arc is rather predictable, but actually works in favor for Seth Rogen & Barbara Streisand.  Rogen downplays the obnoxious overtones that he’s famous for, in favor of playing the role of character instead of his own personality. The story was endearing, humorous and quite memorable for some of Barbara’s scenes (Especially the steakhouse scene) and was based on a trip that screenwriter Dan Fogelman took with his mother. Although this film was shot entirely in Southern California, the special effects team did a superb job of making it look like an actual road trip. The only thing I find strange about the film is the timing of the release. This film is a story about the relationship between mother & son, so I would have expected a film to have been released closer to Mother’s Day, the start of the summer film season.  If you are looking for a lighthearted comedy this holiday season, check out The Guilt Trip when it opens in theaters nationwide starting Wednesday December 19, 2012.

Movie Review for Hyde Park on the Hudson

Hyde Park on the Hudson   

Starring:  Bill Murray, Laura Linney, Olivia Williams, Samuel West, Olivia Coleman

Directed by Roger Michell

Rated: R

Run Time: 94 mins

Genre: Comedy/ Biography/ Drama

Opens December 14^th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Opening in theaters this week is “Hyde Park on the Hudson”, starring a stellar ensemble cast of Bill Murray, Laura Linney, Olivia Williams, Samuel West and Olivia Coleman. With the 2013 Golden Globe Nominations released this week, one thing on viewers minds will be if Bill Murray walk away with an award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy for his portrayal of the 32^nd president.

Told from the point of view of Daisy (Laura Linney), the film chronicles the presidential years of Franklin Delano Roosevelt (Bill Murray) and his time spent at his mother’s summer home in Hyde Park, NY leading up to World War II. Daisy had been summoned by one in FDR’s camp to keep him company while he was recovering from a cold. Since she was the only family member (they were cousins 6^th removed) to reply to his summons, she ended up forging a close relationship with the tenacious president by being a “friendly” companion.

F.D.R.’s wife, Eleanor (Olivia Williams) is in the middle of planning events to entertain King George VI (Samuel West) and Queen Elizabeth (Olivia Coleman) during their visit to Hyde Park. The purpose of the trip is to get America to form an alliance with Great Britain if Hitler was to attack.  The whole town is a buzz that the first time in the history of the United States, British Royalty will be setting foot on American soil. Being the free thinker she was, Eleanor plans a picnic to honor the King & Queen, complete with Native American dancers and barbecuing hot dogs.  The mere though of the King eating a hot dog is mortifying to Queen Elizabeth and is worried that this will reflect badly on the monarchy.

During the monarch’s visit, Daisy discovered she wasn't F.D.R’s only special friend which enraged and devastated the overly patient woman. Although she acknowledges Eleanor is FDR’s wife, she attends to his needs and acts like his wife rather than Eleanor. Will she continue to look the other way and continue to be a part of the inner circle, or will she cut the president off cold turkey?

With the success of "The Kings Speech", having another film focusing on the King of England in a different light almost cheapens the Bertie role in Hyde Park. Much of the film is like a soap opera set pre-World War II, hitting hard on the comedic and dramatic moments.  If you thought the Kennedy or Clinton scandals were juicy, FDR may have trumped the other two. With much of the sexual tones implied rather than seen, Bill Murray and Laura Linney have commendatory chemistry for a secret relationship between 6^th removed cousins.  By the tone of the film, the relaxed approach to FDR’s presidency cheapens and makes him a caricature rather than a historical figure. You be the judge when the film opens in Phoenix theaters starting Friday December 14, 2012.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Movie Review

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey     

Starring: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage

Directed by Peter Jackson

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 169 mins

Genre: Fantasy/ Adventure/ 3D Film

Opens December 14th  

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com  

Tolkien fans should be overjoyed; the long awaited prequel to the Academy Award winning Lord of the Rings Saga is finally here. There have been advances in filmmaking technology since the first Lord of the Rings film was release, so audiences will now be able to experience a more life like viewing of the film, thanks to 48 frames per second projection rate and in 3D. Thank you Peter Jackson & digital projection.

For those not familiar with the J.R.R Tolkien book, The Hobbit is the prequel to the Lord of the Rings series, focusing on Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and how he came to possess the ring. In this first out of the three films, Bilbo is sought out by the wizard Gandalf the Grey(Ian McKellen) to be the 13th member of a group to reclaim a lost dwarf kingdom.  Thorin’s (Richard Armitage) grandfather ruled over the Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor where the gold was mined in abundance. The fortune of the kingdom was greatly sought after and was eventually overthrown by a dragon named Smaug and Ogre invaders.  Gandalf knows that this will not be an easy feat as Bilbo along the way, has lost his childlike adventurous spirit. Thorin does not have much faith in Bilbo, mentioning several times during the journey how much he wishes he didn’t come along to fight their battle.  Bilbo will have to prove to himself, Gandalf and others that he is the right hobbit for the job, but at what cost?

For months now, the popular discussion point in cinematic circles was the decision to use a high frame rate for filming the latest trilogy, 48 frames-per-second. This may be the future of filmmaking, but watching it at the high rate along with 3D, can really do a number on the eyes.  This is just one opinion, but the veil between the viewer and actor is so transparent that the illusion of fantasy is dimmed, looking more like dailies on the set or a television set. What is amazing to watch is the sweeping landscape scenes. How different is the film from the book? Although there are some changes as “The Hobbit” is only one book instead of 3 like LOTR but also being delivered in 3 films; there are some clever additions on Jackson’s part, the film sticks pretty close to the book. The Hobbit is a much lighter tone than the LOTR books, so expect more lighthearted moments and slightly less dark drama. The Hobbit is a much lighter tone than the LOTR books, so expect more lighthearted moments and slightly less dark drama. Not to put too many spoilers in this review but several characters from the LOTR films do make an appearance, making the scenes very enjoyable to watch. Be sure to catch The Hobbit when it opens in theaters nationwide staring Friday December 14, 2012.

Playing For Keeps Movie Review

Playing for Keeps   

Starring: Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel, Catherine Zeta- Jones, Dennis Quaid, Uma Thurman, Judy Greer

Directed by Gabriele Muccino

Rated: PG-13

Run Time: 106 mins

Genre: Comedy/ Romance

Opens December 7^th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Hey Phoenix Film fans, this is another light week on film openings, but instead of going to see Skyfall or Twilight again, a new romantic comedy is opening in theaters nations wide, “Playing for Keeps”.

Aging former soccer god, “King” George Dryer (Gerard Butler) has moved to the town where his ex-wife and son currently reside. George’s fortune from his soccer glory days has dried up from a mix of the current economic climate and a series of poor business decisions. Now George is trying to rebuild his life, starting first with the relationship with his 9 year-old son, Lewis (Noah Lomax).  His ex-wife, Stacie (Jessica Biel) is about to get married to her boyfriend of 3 years, Matt (James Tupper), and this doesn’t bode well with George as he still is in love with her. Trying to get back in Stacie’s good graces by being a better father, George is coerced into coaching Lewis’s soccer team.

George is not only an enormous hit with the kids, but with the soccer parents as well, especially the mothers. Soon after he takes on the coaching role, several mothers are throwing themselves at Coach George, and not in a subtle way. Barb (Judy Greer) is a newly divorcee, looking to get past her failed marriage. Denise (Catherine Zeta-Jones) is Samantha’s mother and used to be a well-known sportscaster. If George helps her “out”, she thinks she can land him a dream job at ESPN.  Married couple Carl (Dennis Quaid) and Patti (Uma Thurman) have issues galore, with the money to back their strange behavior. Carl takes George under his wing, introducing him into Virginia society.

When George’s philandering behavior is witnessed by Lewis firsthand, he wants nothing to do with his father. Not knowing what to do, George turns to Stacie for parenting advice and tries to make peace with his past. Can an aging ladies man ever grow up to be the father his son needs and the man that his ex-wife always wanted him to be?

In an attempt to be a clever, male driven romantic-comedy, Playing for Keeps doesn’t quite score the amount of laughs needed to be unique and different. This film is more of a pallet cleanser between now and the films released in time for Christmas. This film is more guy friendly than anything, but leaves little room for creative storytelling or genuine chemistry to build between the actors. Most of the time, the ladies cast, are running around like hormone, sex-starved teenagers star stuck by a substitute David Beckham type aging sports star. Gerard Butler’s evolution from childish, selfish, over indulgent ladies man to caring soccer coach dad is rather rushed. The chemistry between Biel and Butler is rather muddled and feels more like brother- sister than ex lovers torn apart by pride and unhealthy decisions. I think Biel’s role was poorly cast and would have been better with a slightly older actress like Kate Beckinsale or Isla Fisher, still who look young, but have better comedy chops.  You be the judge when "Playing for Keeps" opens in theaters nations wide starting Friday December 7, 2012

Movie Review for Killing Them Softly

Killing Them Softly   

Starring: Brad Pitt, James Gandolfini, Ray Liotta, Richard Jenkins, Scoot McNairy, Ben Mendelsohn, Sam Sheppard

Directed by Andrew Dominik

Rated: R

Run Time: 97 mins

Genre: Crime/ Drama

Opens November 30^th

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

After last week’s film release overload, the week is a tad light on the new releases. This week the 2012 Cannes Film Festival Palme d’Or nominated film, Killing Them Softly opens in theaters nationwide. Based on the novel “Cogan’s Trade” by George V. Higgins, Director Andrew Dominik (The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford), Brad Pitt’s production company Plan B and The Weinstein Company assembled a top-notch group of actors for this crime thriller.

What happens when stupid people do exceedingly Incredulous acts of stupidity?  The smart or “wise guys” step in to clean up the mess. That’s what happened when 3 small time crooks decide to take on the mob by robbing a Mob protected card game run by Markie Trattman (Ray Liotta). They try to set Markie up by making it look like he was robbing his own card game to steal the cash of the high roller gamblers. Markie is a bit of a prankster, which he pulled this trick once before, but “Fool me once shame on you. Fool me twice shame on me” goes a long way with this crowd.  The other players were not about to be duped again, so taking matters into their own hands, they target Markie. In the meantime, balance needed to be restored to the crime community, so Driver (Richard Jenkins) calls in an “enforcer” of order, Jackie (Brad Pitt).

Jackie,  familiar with the on goings of the circuit knows he needs assistance to complete the job that normally his fellow hit man Dillion (Sam Shppard) would have taken on. Because Jackie has been in contact with someone who knows the target, another wet work guy is brought in to complete the job, Mickey (James Gandolfini).

It becomes glaringly clear that Mickey is not in the right state of mind nor body to take on this job, so it now falls down on Jackie to clean up the entire mess before it gets worse.

Have you ever, after watching a film, walk out of a theater wondering why a star was drawn to a certain project? Is if for the money?  A great part or a great storyline?  Or maybe perhaps it is to work with someone they have wanted to work with for a long time?  Whatever the reason maybe, it befuddles me to see strong actors such as Brad Pitt, James Gandolfini, Sam Sheppard and even Ray Liotta be reduced from the strong presence they had in past roles playing gangsters or criminals to the mess that was displayed in Killing Them Softly.  For those expecting an exciting crime ridden film that you would expect from a cast such as this, I’m not sure this would live up to the expectations that films such as Snatch, Goodfellas or even a television show such as The Sopranos.

I’m not sure what went awry along the way in production, but the Big Political/ Corporate Criminals vs. the Smaller Crime circuit, whining about their cut of the business accentuated with the overlay of news clips and sound bites from the 2008 election/ economic Chernobyl-esq meltdown did nothing to help the story.  The film is heavily focused on the dialogue, which for a film about gangsters and crime is unusual. With the combination of the heavy dialogue, slow pacing of the film and the constant topic-jumping between characters not seen or have large parts, if the viewer is not paying attention may get confused and lost.  One of the bright points of the film was during a few of the hit scenes with Jackie. There is a particular slow motion sequence that is done well and breaks up the monotony between storylines. The film takes a while to get interesting which could have been cut by 20 minutes and still accomplished the point of the story. This film was trying to be clever and intellectually stimulating, but should have focused more on the entertainment value.  You be the judge when “Killing Them Softly” opens in theaters nationwide starting Friday November 30, 2012.

Interview with Matthew Quick, Author of "Silver Linings Playbook" - Part 3

Matthew Quick Interview: Finding the Silver Linings- Part 3  

By Lisa Minzey of The Reel Critic.com

Continued from Part 2:

PFF: Do you have any plans to adopt any of your other books into screenplays? 

MQ: Yes, I would love to do that, but my agents keep telling me I’m a brand now; you are a novelist. There’s a screenplay for “Like a Rock Star” and there’s some interest in “Boy 21”. I think all the stuff I write is rather cinematic. We are kind of waiting to see how SLP is received before making some decisions going forward. I have an adult book that I can’t currently discuss at the moment, which would be a great film and follow up to Silver Linings, in both book and film formats. We are excited about that, but it’s hard not to say anything else.

“Leonard Peacock” would be a brilliant film. “Perks of Being a Wallflower”, which was great, I love that book; I almost didn’t want to see the film. I would love to meet Stephen [Chbosky]; I’m unabashedly a fan.  I saw “Perks” and thought “Leonard Peacock” would be in the same ballpark. I would answer his call any day; I’m a huge fan of his.

PFF: Do you have a favorite "silver lining" moment?

MQ: There are definitely a lot of them… One really beautiful moment was that of my Uncle Pete is a Vietnam Vet. He is a stock options trader, a very intense man. I mean that in the best of ways, he knows who he is; he doesn't take anything off anyone. He’s the kind of guy who makes money, but wears camouflage all the time. He’s a brilliant man, but lives on his own terms. He’s not someone I thought who would encourage me to write, but when I told him my plans the first time, he said to me, “Risk & Reward”. He played the stock market, “You want to do something great; you need to take a risk.”  He’s one of the very few people at the time who understood what I had to do.

I remember when I wrote “Sorta Like a Rock Star”, there is a character name Private Jackson and he is aVietnamveteran – he’s not my Uncle Pete, but all the stories, I learned from him.  My uncle counsels vets and is very serious aboutVietnam. Shortly before the book’s publication, I told him about this character. He looked at me quite seriously, and said “You better not mess that up. If you made this character look bad, you’re in bug trouble”.  He was very serious.

Uncle Pete went out and bought the book on the first day of its release, and to put this in perspective, the cover is white, had rainbow letters with a teenager girl. This is not the type of book my uncle would generally read. He mainly reads book on history and war. He was the first in my family to read the book and he called me up to tell me – I got it right, this book is beautiful.  He is such an unlikely reader for that type of book. It really struck me hard because I realized the power of stories, to transcend all the differences. He related to that story because it was about people that were wounded, connecting in a very intense moment. That was a beautiful silver lining for me. To connect with my Vietnam Veteran uncle through art was something I never expected to happen.

PFF: Is there any advice you can give to aspiring artists that can help them find their silver lining on their artistic journey?

MQ: I felt so lonely when I went through this process of writing. Without exaggeration, dangerously lonely.  Really, sometimes I was so depressed, I just wanted this so much, I felt like it was something I could do. There were so many times I felt it wasn’t going to happen. So when I talk about this stuff, one of the things that strikes me, and I try to be as honest as I can, how many people say that, “I’m in this situation, and it resonates so strongly with me.”? Not even artists; just people that come up to me and say, “I’m a CEO of a company, and I started when I was your age”, our stories are the same. Or “I started a law firm when I was 29; everyone said I was crazy, but I followed my vision.” You end up seeing; this is the journey of the hero. It is exactly what people go through. I honestly think we don’t talk about it enough, and we don’t encourage people to leave the herd. In our society, especially in our schools, we tell kids, “Be the same. Make sure you get the right score on the SAT. Make sure you go to the right college.”, instead of saying “Find the authentic You. Find what you can put into the world.”  I love the fact [the book & film] inspires people to make art and keep going. If I had quit 5 days before I sent my query letter to my agent, and this book was rejected by a lot of agents in New York, we wouldn’t be talking now. David O. Russell wouldn’t have made the film. I have a novelist friend, Ron, he told me, “People are quitting everyday.” What he meant by that, is that part of making it is not giving up. We need more people that help those people who are trying not to give up; that shine the light on some of the positive things. People are leaving the "Silver Linings" movie or reading the book, and saying “Wow, I feel uplifted after this.” We need more of that.

“Silver Linings Playbook” opens in theaters nationwide November 21, 2012. For more information about on the novel “Silver Linings Playbook” or any of Matthew Quick’s other novels visit http://matthewquickwriter.com