A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. Batman v Superman

I just...don't like this director much (the same director as Man of Steel). While I'm sure he's trying to get all the comic book facts right, his major sin is OVERSTUFFING, leaving the viewer with a bit of headache at the end of the film. Ben Affleck made for an okay Batman, but the real superhero here was Wonder Woman, who kicked better ass than all the boys.


2. Concussion

I like that this film sheds light on how the greed and corruption of the NFL is affecting its players' health. The film is good overall, but offers very little comedic relief, so make sure you're in the mood to watch something very heavy and a bit sad. Decent acting from Will, but not Oscar-worthy (sorry, buddy!).


3. Spotlight

Interesting movie about investigative journalism, reminiscent of All the President's Men, but not as outstanding (because you just can't beat Robert Redford). Overall a very solid film, but not deserving of the Academy Award. Another example of films winning the main prize because they're on controversial topics (I'm also still peeved Brooklyn didn't win, so maybe I'm biased).


4. Captain America: Winter Soldier

THIS is a real superhero movie--great pacing, lots of adventure, fantastic storyline--it's one of the best superhero movies I have ever seen (yes, I'm really late to watching it). Chris Evans makes for a great Captain America, that hunk of man! So now, I can't wait for Civil War to come out...I think I'll go opening weekend!

Photo Credits: 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. The Martian 

I get the hype surrounding this movie; it's truly stellar. I'll call it Gravity's perkier, lighthearted twin. Matt Damon holds his own, yet again, and will never cease to be the hot All-American Guy.

2. Deadpool

This movie was so funny, so inappropriate, so in your-face, and just SO GOOD. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, could have played this role apart from Ryan Reynolds. Aside from the comedy, the movie has excellent character and relationship development: A+++++++

3. Pee Wee's Big Holiday

I was such a huge Pee-Wee fan as a kid so this went into the Netflix queue as soon as I saw it. Not as good as Pee Wee's Big Adventure, but has enough nostalgic moments to keep 80s kids satisfied. Pee Wee and Joe Manganiello have a gay relationship--not sure if they were going for that, but they TOTALLY DO (bromance, my ass).

4. Snowpiercer 

A very dark movie about a post-apocalyptic train than that must keep circling the earth so its inhabitants do not freeze to death. The train is separated into a class system, and of course, rebellion ensues. This is an interesting watch if you're in a pensive, dystopian mood.


Photo Credit:

1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. Brooklyn

In Theaters

I saw it twice in theaters and I'll gladly proclaim it the movie of the year. This is a film with well-developed characters, top-notch acting, and a true focus on human emotion--I couldn't expect anything less from a screenplay written by Nick Hornby, the writer of High Fidelity. If you've ever moved away from your hometown, especially to a different country, you will connect with this film so fervidly you will surely be brought to tears, just as my friend and I were, sobbing in our seats as the credits rolled.


2. Making a Murderer

On Netflix

SPOILER: I'm not so convinced of the clear agenda of this documentary--that Steven Avery is innocent. I was, however, horrified by the events that led Brendan into prison, and I think it's a travesty that a young life is wasting away due to (in my opinion) unlawful practices by a clearly corrupt police force. Whatever way you lean, this is an interesting and compelling look into the theory that, yes, it's not so difficult to be framed; a chilling thought indeed.


3. You're Not You

On Netflix

Worth a watch because of the two lead ladies and their excellent acting. Hillary Swank plays a woman who is diagnosed with ALS, and her once perfect life starts to slowly dissolve around her, except that she becomes best buds with angsty Bec (Emmy Rossum). Not as touching as Tuesdays with Morrie, but still gets you in the feels.


4. World of Tomorrow

On Netflix

Only 17 minutes long, and a bit strange at first, but you NEED TO WATCH THIS. I didn't know a little cartoon could uplift me in under a half hour, but this sure did. After watching, you'll no longer fall in love with rocks.


Picture credits 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens

I'm not the biggest Star Wars fan (Star Trek reigns supreme, ok?). However, I enjoyed this, mostly due to the main character, Rey, who wasn't a helpless little lady, but a self sufficient heroine who kicked some major ass. Throw in BB8, the cutest little robot, and that makes this Star Wars one of the best and something you should see on the big screen.

2. The Danish Girl

Eddie Redmayne is trying to nab all the Best Actor awards...AND SUCCEEDING. The film is beautiful overall, as is Eddie's performance as the first transgender woman (as well the supporting actress, Alicia Vikander, a recent favorite of mine). I will say the plot was predictable and the ending left me wanting something better, something not so CLICHE; however, the entire film is most definitely worth a watch, although you don't need to be in theaters to watch it.

3. Joy

Odd film, but to be expected from the same director who created Silver Linings Playbook, among other strange films. Joy is not his best, but I will say the story is fascinating (especially because it's based on a true story). Also, end rant: I like Jennifer Lawrence, but when is she going to play anything else besides herself (it's time for a more challenging role, J Law)?

4. Carol

Does Cate Blanchett ever have an off performance? I'm pretty sure she's one of the ultimate queens of acting, as she proves yet again here in this tale of a lesbian relationship in the 50s. Overall, I liked it a lot but wanted just a little more development of the relationship between Cate and Mara--not the fault of the actresses, but the script.


***
Picture Credits: 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. The Intern

Anne and Robert bring their emotional A-game here--both play well-rounded, realistic characters. The same can't be said for all in the movie, though, as Anne's husband is a strange choice of character  and the relationship there doesn't seem super believable. This is not the best Nancy Meyer's film I've seen, but it's still worth a watch (just wait till DVD or Netflix).

2. Seeking a Friend for the End of the World

I was surprised at how much I liked this, but liking it is due to Steve Carrell being so damn good at dramedy. This "end of the world/a meteor is heading straight for us" film is a great commentary on human nature--everything you think might go down if the apocalypse was upon us does happen. The last scene is absolutely terrifying, but in a gut-wrenching, all-we-have-is-each-other sort of way.

3. Welcome to Me

Kristen Wiig, I like you, BUT...sighhhh. Honestly, this is one of the weirdest movies I have seen; it's certainly in the quirky category, but I'm not sure it's in a good way. The end message is endearing, but it was just a no for me.

4. Comet

Overall, I liked this zigzagged tale of two lovers' tempestuous relationship over 6 years. It's not up to par with the likes of 500 Days of Summer (what is, really?), but it has the same non-chronological type of story telling. What wins here are the touching performances by Long and Rossum bringing to life a relationship that just can't be let go of.

Photo Credits: 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. Trainwreck

Pure Amy Schumer, unfiltered, and thus, not-your-average romantic comedy. It's easy to see this is the first movie script she has ever penned; it's clearly novice in some areas. However, it matters not--there are enough shocking, sweet, hilarious moments to make up for any lull in the script.

2. Timbuktu

This movie stayed with me for several days after the credits rolled. The serenity of the desert contrasted with the harshness of the religious extremists occupying Timbuktu is so very striking here. I like how the movie explained the mindset of both the captives and the extremists, somehow allowing the audience to understand the humanness of everyone involved--this is a must watch.

3. Something, Anything

On Netflix Instant

I think there will be two conclusions from viewers after watching this movie: one, that the lead character (Peggy) is selfish, and two, that Peggy was on a quest for truth. I could see both sides; however, I think I ultimately sided with the second conclusion, mostly because I truly believe we are a society brainwashed, and Peggy was simply battling with the undoing of that brainwashing. The movie has got a slow pace, but like a slow epiphany I like how Peggy's end decision is revealed (you're gonna hate her obviously fake wig, though).

4. Hector and the Search for Happiness

On Netflix Instant

Even though Simon Pegg is in this (who is as charming as he is hilarious), I just couldn't get on board with Hector. While the questions asked in this film were generally quite profound and a good foundation, the actual film couldn't answer such questions in an equally profound way. Some people on Netflix seemed to love it though so maybe it's worth a watch to draw your own conclusion.

Image credits: 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. Magic Mike XXL

That's RIGHT--I saw Magic Mike XXL and I'm NOT SORRY...all the ladies gotta watch this! The script is crap, the plot is negligible, and it really is a terrible, terrible movie. BUT WE ALL KNOW THAT NONE OF THAT MATTERS because I had an absolute blast watching Channing and the boys shake their asses (plus a convenience store scene that was the BEST).


2. Jurassic World

Don't go into it even thinking it will compare to the brilliance of the first--it just can't capture that magic. Instead it capitalizes off of the nostalgia-loving group that is 90s kids, and nostalgia it does deliver in heavy doses, sprinkled with a bit of charm from Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard. Overall, this makes it a fun one-time watch.


3. Coffee in Berlin

On Netflix Instant

I found this film oddly refreshing and a great watch, down to the symbolism of Frederich not being able to get a damn cup of coffee all day. Not everyone will like this film as on the surface it seems to be about nothing. However, a closer look at all the happenings of Frederich's day reveals an almost clandestine coming-of-age theme that I really just loved.


4. Take Care

On Netflix Instant 

The plot is a little unbelievable: woman badly hurt from a car accident guilts her ex-boyfriend to come take care of her, much to the dismay of his current girlfriend (who comes up with this shit?). However, I liked it anyway. It's funny in a realistic way, and somehow also sweet despite the circumstance.

Picture Credits: 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

I thought I would hurry up and watch a few films to get this post up sooner rather than later. All this in order to warn you against #1. Just doing my civic duty!!


1. Aloha

DO NOT, I REPEAT, DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME, MONEY, OR OXYGEN ON THIS MOVIE. I am convinced that Rachel McAdams, Bradley Cooper, Emma Stone, and Bill Murray were either drugged/owed Cameron Crowe favors/were coerced to sign onto this piece of shit film. I can't even list all the issues with it, but one HUGE problem is that has about 20 plots in one movie, all of which give you a migraine by the end.


2. Annie Hall

It took me far too long to see this brilliant piece of art that must have been extremely innovative in the late 70s. I can clearly see how many movies have tried to match the witty dialogue (Before Sunrise), the artistic elements (500 Days of Summer), and the endearing realism found in Annie Hall, which truly is the gold standard. Diane Keaton just shined from within here; the brilliant cast (a young Christopher Walken??) mixed with the loveable neuroticism that is the script had me just adoring this film.


3. Barefoot

Ugh, what even went on here? It's my fault for playing it, I guess, but you know a movie is bad when it brings down the usually refreshing Evan Rachel Wood (who plays a mental patient here). It's not the worst thing I've ever seen (see number 1, above), but it's certainly not worth your precious time.


4. In a World...

Solid film, and Lake Bell is totally loveable in it. There wasn't an innovative plot, or anything, but the acting is superb and the dialogue is ace (including making fun of how the Brits say soy, "soya" if you're interested). I'd call this a funny feel-good film that gives a small glimpse into the world of voiceovers.


Photo Credits: 1/2/3/4

***

And I'm off to Boston tomorrow...the travel bug is back again! 

A Three-Sentence Movie Review

1. How to Die in Oregon

Documentary that intimately follows one story of a woman with cancer thinking about opting for Death with Dignity (also known as euthanasia). It physically hurts to watch this film, yet it also gives great insight into those choosing the euthanasia path when all other options are depleted. While the documentary covers the pro-choice side well, it could do a little more to explain the other side of the coin; either way, you can't help but feel for Cody's plight (pictured above).


2. Save the Date

One commitment phobe sister, another sister who is getting married. I wanted to like this seemingly quirky film a little more, but it simply fell short, especially because sometimes the characters felt more like caricatures (how funny that the lead character is a cartoonist). It was like they didn't know how to really end it, so they just went with something quick, painless, and unoriginal.


3. The Believer

Ryan Gosling as you've never seen him before--in the role of a Neo-Nazi. This is a little, uh, tough to watch; however, at the same time it provides great insight into how hatred is formed. Overall, there's something really interesting here and if you're into psychological stuff, you might enjoy it.


4. Refuge

Not worth your time. I saw a semblance of a story line, but it really couldn't come together, and I especially could not get behind the blasé romance they tried to create here. I was praying and praying that the movie would just END (even though Netflix told me exactly how long I had left to sit through this hell).


Photo credits: 1/2/3/4

All of these movies can be found on good ol' Netflix Instant!

A Three-Sentence Movie Review

1. The Imitation Game

Well done and interesting that all this happened in real life. More proof that many of the 'greats' are not appreciated until after death. Keira Knightley and Benedict Cumberbatch in a period piece and all is right with the world.


2. Beginners

I liked this one a lot. The movie taps into the need for all humans to connect to each other, including the effects of repressing feelings/emotions/sexuality. It's a good love story, for both father and son.



3. Life Partners

Accurate, telling, and honest depiction of what it's like to transition from your late-twenties into your thirties, as well as the notion that not everyone matures at the same speed (crucial theme when it comes to best friends maturing at different speeds). Organic dialogue that reminded me of the way I (and my friends) talk. Out of the movies listed here, this was surprisingly my favorite!


4. Fruitvale Station

So very powerful. You will feel angry, upset, confused, and distraught after this film--all signs that they did a good job affecting the audience. If you don't know the premise, look it up; this is obviously a poignant topic for the time.


Photos Credits: 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. The Best of Me

This was so bad it's actually humorous; but really, 'best' should be nowhere near the title. It was like they thought, "Let's put about 6 tragic events in one film, add in a choppy love story, mix in a few outrageous/alcoholic/drug-dealing characters, and WE'VE GOT OURSELVES A WINNER!" Not even James Marsden's beautiful face could save this one.


2. Advanced Style

On Netflix Instant

Inspiring and adorable. Documentary on women who have great style in their "advanced" age--the 70 and above crowd. Of course, the film veers into their life stories, their hopes, and the idea that no matter your age, there's still a lot of living to do.


3. The One I Love

On Netflix Instant

WHOA. You'll go into this film thinking it's just about a troubled couple wanting to fix their marriage, and you'll leave the film thinking "WHATTTTT JUST HAPPENEDDDDDD?!?" Without giving too much away (I can't ruin this for you), this is suchhhh a must watch!


4. Song One

Although I usually love the depth Anne Hathaway gives to her characters, I found this film to be lacking. There was no real passion between the two love interests, and no real passion in the film, period. Unless you're looking for a good nap, skip this 'song.'


Image credits: 1/2/3/4

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Forgive the radio silence the next few days on the blog. I'll be traveling and experiencing some jet lag this week. The next post you'll see here will be written from London! 

A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. In Bruges

WATCH THIS NOW if you love dark humor. Ray's moodiness wins here as he trudges around the beautiful Bruges while calling it a shithole and sulking on site-seeing boats. Even better, there's redemption found in the friendship between Ray and Ken, two men that you should probably hate but have a hard time doing so.


2. William and Kate

Ok, this is a vapid pick, but sometimes I like a little vapid. As far as Lifetime movies go, it's not half bad! This is a gushy, girly, good watch on a sick/rainy day when you have absolutely nothing better to do than watch craptastic films and eat ice cream.


3. Chef

Not a novel idea for a plot, but somehow it still charms. A story about a has-been chef/crappy father and his journey in turning his life around. This is a mood-lifter; but beware, it'll make you hungry.


4. Perfect Sense

I just couldn't take this film seriously. The premise: an outbreak causes the world to lose all their senses, one by one, starting with the sense of smell. It might have been a well-done horror flick with the right direction, but only succeeds in violin overkill during overdramatic scenes.


(All of these films were from Netflix Instant)
Photo credits: 1/2/3/4

A Three-Sentence Movie Review

1. American Sniper

A must watch: heartbreaking, gripping, and poignant. It made me feel like a spoiled brat for not thinking enough about all the poor young souls who have had to actually fight in war, no matter the side. This is not a "pro war," movie; on the contrary, it's about how humans can barely comprehend the atrocities seen in battle, prompting a good discussion about PTSD.  

2. Rocket

On Netflix

A story about keeping a winning spirit when everyone (really) doubts you. Set in Laos, the main character is thought to be bad luck for the village, and is even shunned by his own grandmother. When a rocket competition provides a chance for redemption for the boy, the result is spectacular (and made me cry).


3. Copenhagen 

On Netflix

Unlikeable protagonist who grows on you when you find out his backstory (I like when movies dothat). The story is decent, but the scenes of Copenhagen are SPECTACULAR. For that alone, you should watch this on day where you're just craving European scenery (oh, only me?). 

4. L'Auberge Espagnole 

On Netflix

First movie in a series of three that I intend to watch. Some parts of the movie are profound and provide excellent commentary on what it's like to be an expat, other parts of the film are a little Euro-trashy and lose a bit of focus. While Xavier (the main character) can be self-centred at times, overall you'll like this "Spanish Hostel."   



Photo creds: 1/2/3/4