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. 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

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

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

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

A Three-Sentence Movie Review

Unbroken

Good, but it needed a little more lightheartedness in a script very heavy with sadness and intensity. Still, Unbroken is a testament to human determination and spirit. Worth seeing, but make sure you're not in a sad mood going into it.








Happy

On Netflix Instant

Solid documentary showcasing positive psychology. A good reminder of how to live life for anyone needing a pick-me-up on a bad day. Watch it.


















Remembrance

On Netflix Instant

I haven't seen a film this beautiful in a very long time. About long lost love due to the war, you'll almost fall apart watching this one unfold. I know the film was justified ending the way it did, but I WANT MOOOOOORE (signs of a great script).

















Into the Woods

The first two-thrids of the movie flows very well; however, the plot gets choppy at the end, despite me liking the overall message. Top-notch singing in this movie-musical. The "Agony" scene makes up for any shortfalls--simply brilliant.









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Photo creds: 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

Maleficent

This was really, really brilliant. Angelina Jolie is a great actress (who can deny that?) and was the spot on choice for this role, showing a more in-depth and complex Maleficent than old tales. My one gripe is the amount of computer animation (how about filming in a forest instead of creating one on the computer?!?); however, that's the only negative in what surprised me as a sensational retelling of an old favorite--I must own this on DVD. 

Playing for Keeps

I see what they were trying to do here, but *something* was lacking--the script, the actors, the situation--who the heck knows? What resulted was a vanilla film with a lackluster love story in the mix. The only character I liked was the son (at least he brought some light to the screen).








The Theory of Everything

Not as brilliant as I hoped it would be, as I was wanting a little more science in the film! BUT...I'm really starting to love the grittiness of Felicity Jones, and Eddie Redmayne did a stand-up job of portraying what it might be like to be a young Stephen Hawking newly diagnosed with ALS. Despite some of the missteps of the film, there is real heart here because of the spectacular acting.







Tiny: A Story About Living Small

Love, love, love. A documentary about adopting a minimalistic philosophy and living in (you guessed it) tiny homes of about 125-200 square meters. Part of me loves the idea (was I nomad in my past life?) and part of me wonders if it's actually feasible; either way, this is worth a watch.







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Photo credits: 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

There were some good movies in this batch!


1. Interstellar

Wow, this one is a doozie and a half--a film that actually left me both satisfied and wanting with the mess of black holes, new planets, and space theories. I look at the reception for this movie in two groups: those who liked the last hour of the film, and those who hated it. Ok, so the movie is a little long (running at almost 3 hours), but for being a pretty cool film about space, I fall into the first group.

















2. Frances Ha

The plot seems misguided in the beginning, much like Frances, but I think that may be the point. Frances is relatable to all those who have felt like the delinquent one, prompting the audience to ultimately cheer her on through the end. Don't dismiss this film in the beginning--it's worth watching the whole way through.








3. Mr. Nobody

This movie will hurt your brain a little, comparable to the likes of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. True, its premise of Mr. Nemo Nobody being the last mortal on earth (everyone else is immortal) and recounting memories gets a little jumbled at times. However, the overall message of finding meaning in life succeeds.
















4. Short Term 12

A story rarely told, and a touching one at that: a look into what happens to the kids that are neglected/beaten/left by their parents. This movie will have you nearly in stitches. Plus, the director/writer of this film graduated from San Diego State University (my alma mater--what what!).







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Photo credits: 1/2/3/4

A Three Sentence Movie Review

1. Gone Girl

A bit campy, but entertaining none-the-less. There are some twists from a very twisted couple indeed. You'll be a bit disturbed from it all, but maybe not overly impressed or wowed.









2. St. Vincent 

A lovely, unpretentious film that will make you cry like a little baby. Can you really go wrong with Bill Murray? No, and they've added a cute kid in the mix for good measure to make sure the tears stream down your face--this has gotta be one of the best movies of the year.







3. Liberal Arts

Nice to see Ted in a movie. I wish this film would have had 30 more minutes of character development to make it a real winner. Even though it falls slightly short, there are some sensational lines to takeaway here.












4. The Trip

Heavy dialogue gives great insight into the heart of the characters--two blokes traveling the English countryside on a food tour. It's interesting and fun to see the push and pull between Rob and Steve. This film goes deeper than the initial giggles over Rob's impressions; give it a go!







Images via 1/2/3/4