The Movie Review and Discussion Thread

[tbizzle]

Originally Posted by BladeRunner2007

Triangle ?/5

I guess I liked it, but I need to watch it a 2nd time, just to make sure lol.

Up in the Air 4/5

Great movie with great performances

Yeah you have to read some of the Triangle discussion on this site so you'll really understand what's going on in the film. Then give it a second viewing and I'm sure it will be much more enjoyable. I need to see it again soon, and a lot more will click for me this time

Agree on Up in the Air, very well done film.

[tbizzle]

Taking Woodstock - 4.25/5

Well done film. The beginning wasn't too interesting, but that really picked up for me once the hippies started showing up (my people! ). I loved everything from then on. The atmosphere, the vibes, the music, the people.... man I was really there in spirit. Ang Lee definitely did a good job on the movie. I loved the trip part! I liked the cast a lot, Liev was hilarious! Definitely recommend it

[Big-byrd]

Originally Posted by lDlisturb3d

So is this worth buying or just viewing. How would you compare this to training day?

I dont knw why i click on the spoiler like a dumb azz hopefully ill forget what you said by the time a view it lol.

i would rent it, i really liked training day. I feel like i expected it to kinda be that way and it wasnt, it was a fresh idea i just wasnt that big of a fan of it.

[BladeRunner2007]

The Runaways 5/5

[KilloWertz]

Originally Posted by jhiggy23

Good to see some reviews for Brooklyn's Finest. I think Fuqua is a talented director, although def not in the upper echelon.

I agree. Fuqua might not be the greatest director around, but I have enjoyed every single movie of his that I have seen so far. Even though it's not considered to be very good, my favorite of his is probably his first movie (The Replacement Killers). Call it a guilty pleasure I guess.

[jhiggy23]

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (blu)

PQ: 4.5 (out of 5)

AQ: 4.5 (out of 5)

Film: 4 stars (out of 4)


I've already given my susbstantive review of the film, so I won't do so again. Regarding the technical merits of the film, both video and audio are solid--this is a very good release.

I'm not sure if this film will count towards next year's Oscars, since it was released abroad last fall and domestically in April. If it is eligible, I think there's a 50% chance it will be nominated for Best Foreign Film. Why do I give that percentage? Well, based on the film's quality it absolutely should be one of the five nominees--there's no chance that there will be five better foreign films this year, considering this is arguably the greatest foreign murder mystery ever (a belief that is becoming more common). However, the main reason why I think it has a good chance to be nominated is how incredibly successful the film has been both domestically and abroad, setting records everywhere. We all know the Oscars are all about tv ratings now, with their shameful expansion to ten best pic nominations, and their option of either allowing or disallowing a best song category. The reason for the expansion was simple--they want films that are successful at the box office to be nominated.

So, why not the most successful foreign film, which in addition to its financial success also is extremely well-reviewed? The other side of the argument, however, is that the Academy never nominates straight forward genre pictures for best foreign film. It's almost always art house or topically important films (although Tattoo is topically important too). So, I think it's 50/50. On a different note, Rapace deserves at least some whispers of a best actress nom, although there's zero chance she'll get the nomination. The Academy rarely nominates foreign actors/actresses/directors for the major awards.

[jhiggy23]

Vivre Sa Vie (blu) (Criterion)

PQ: 4.5 (out of 5)

AQ: 4.0 (out of 5)

Film: 3 1/2 stars (out of 4)


This is an exceptional film by one of the most acclaimed directors of all-time, Godard. It is beautifully photographed, first and foremost. The only film that I think is shot more beautifully in black and white, in terms of human subjects, is The Passion of Joan of Arc (I say human subjects, because other films, such as Last Year at Marienbad, are beautifully shot in regards to the sets). There are some really incredible shots here and there were numerous times where you see purposely dark or light materials or objects in the background to improve a scene.

Anna Karina is fantastic here. The dancing scene is one of my new favorite scenes ever--love that scene. She's just stunningly beautiful. I really liked the 12 chapters that the film is set up in. I felt a connection to Karina's character and that emotional attachment made the film even better for me. I wasn't always fond of Godard's use of camera angles (i.e. first gunshot scene and one of the dialogue scenes), but there's enough great direction to let it slide. I will absolutely be picking this film up, either tomorrow or in November for the next Criterion sale.

Side note: if Joan of Arc, when it comes on blu (which I predict will be a Criterion release next year), looks half as good as it does in this film, we are all in for a treat.

[QuasidodoJr]

Originally Posted by jhiggy23

Vivre Sa Vie (blu) (Criterion)

PQ: 4.5 (out of 5)

AQ: 4.0 (out of 5)

Film: 3 1/2 stars (out of 4)

'Ears! 'Ears, my good Sir!

Definitely a great film. I'm really looking forward to Godard's Breathless coming in September.

Now you just need to see Bigger Than Life. You have no other choice.

[Lepidopterous]

Originally Posted by QuasidodoJr

'Ears! 'Ears, my good Sir!

Definitely a great film. I'm really looking forward to Godard's Breathless coming in September.

Word. Great review Jhiggy! Such an incredible film.

[lDlisturb3d]

Inception

Movie 10/10 Easily

First off i will like to start this review by saying Leonardo DiCaprio is AMAZING!

Ok i really thought after seeing Shutter Island (Which i gave a 10/10) was the best the Dicaprio could pull off. But let me be the first to say that Inception is definitely in a League of its own. Completely spellbinding, and amazingly entertaining. You will be on the edge of your seat every second of this movie. I was really surprised on how well this movie was DIRECTED, it was simply breathtaking. BRAVO for the ideal, this movies' replay value will be off the charts.

Hello INCEPTION, Hold on MATRIX

[LordoftheRings]

Film: 3/5
Picture: 3.5/5
Sound: 4/5
Extras: 1/5
Overall: 3/5

* Last comment: Interesting concept. What I like most about it? The Music.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by QuasidodoJr

'Ears! 'Ears, my good Sir!

Definitely a great film. I'm really looking forward to Godard's Breathless coming in September.

Now you just need to see Bigger Than Life. You have no other choice.

I'll be seeing both soon!

[lDlisturb3d]

Originally Posted by LordoftheRings

Film: 3/5
Picture: 3.5/5
Sound: 4/5
Extras: 1/5
Overall: 3/5

* Last comment: Interesting concept. What I like most about it? The Music.

that pretty low, this was a good flick, very original

[JLant19]

Inception(Theater)

Director/Writer: Christopher Nolan
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ken Watanabe

Film:5/5

If you think Memento made you think and comprehend then Inception is about to blow you away. Inception will make you think above most films that come out today but do not let that hinder you from experiencing one the most original films to ever be made. Christopher Nolan does it again with this mind-bending film.

I understand why people compare this to The Matrix but this is nothing like it. This is def more clever than The Matrix and I will say better.

The film has a good pace throughout, I never had the feeling of when will this be over or what time is it. I was so focused/intent on this film nothing could "break" me from it. I feel as if I understood it(sure of it)and there were no holes in the story that I'm aware of but this is def something I want to view again to make sure I didn't miss anything. When viewing this I def recommend you stay focused and patient with it. The story was easy to understand but just make sure you do not miss anything being said for about the first hour & 1/2. In this time the main themes and ideas are being expressed. The rest of the film is a lot of action not too much either.

This story/writing is brilliant as well as directing. CN def deserves a nom in both categories for this film. Should he win? To soon to tell, but as for now I would say yes to both. Is this best pic material? Still too soon to tell but if I had to pick a best film of this year as of now, this would be it.

LD did a great job in this. I really praise his acting in this. Same with all of the cast. No one did a poor job at all. I really enjoyed Ellen Page in this. I was happy she did so well. I must say I am not a big fan of hers but thats bc I haven't seen a great amount of stuff she has done. JGL was really good. He is one of my fav actors right now and he did not disappoint.

This is my kind of film. It made me think, think what is happening and what would happen next. I highly urge and recommend anyone to see this.

[Q?]

King Kong Extended Version.

This was perfect for having a hangover, really enjoyed the whole experience. But this movie has always been a mixed bag for me, it's intense and enthralling, but also can be a bit contrived with the acting and the pacing isn't perfect for me either. I'm sure it was intentional that the actors were to be melodramatic, or like Jack Black's "oh my, this is very ominous" look he had during the 1/3 of the movie, I was just a tad annoyed with it. 1/3 part of the movie, all the characters were introduced and the world they live in, poverty and lack of jobs and such and the trip to the island, there was way too much build-up set up for the anticipation of seeing Kong and the island for me. 2/3 of the movie is where it really shines, one exciting action scene after another and a few suspenseful survival scenes too. I'm literally impressed with it, the CGI ranged from "passable" to "convincing", mostly in between though, but very impressed with it also as this was released in 2005! Definitely one of the most memorable experiences for me. The last part 3/3 of the movie, though I think it's shorter than the other two? I understand it's supposed to be the the emotional peak and heart of the movie, the relationship between Kong and Ann and all. It did affect me and I felt sorry for them, but also it was too long and not as interesting as the 2/3 part of the movie. I wasn't cringing when Jack Black delivered the last famous line in the movie, what's the big deal?

PQ 5/5 I wasn't scrutinizing it, but it pretty much looked PERFECT to me, this is what Blu-ray is about.
AQ 5/5 I use a Pioneer DVD Surround Sound Player for the audio, though not the best equipment it was great, I was almost in awe of Kong's voice.

8/10
I can't give this momumental movie less than that, also not more as there are too many things I don't like about it as well. This movie is so big I've probably forgot many things I wanted to say.

[lDlisturb3d]

Originally Posted by JLant19

Inception(Theater)

Director/Writer: Christopher Nolan
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ken Watanabe

Film:5/5

If you think Memento made you think and comprehend then Inception is about to blow you away. Inception will make you think above most films that come out today but do not let that hinder you from experiencing one the most original films to ever be made. Christopher Nolan does it again with this mind-bending film.

I understand why people compare this to The Matrix but this is nothing like it. This is def more clever than The Matrix and I will say better.

The film has a good pace throughout, I never had the feeling of when will this be over or what time is it. I was so focused/intent on this film nothing could "break" me from it. I feel as if I understood it(sure of it)and there were no holes in the story that I'm aware of but this is def something I want to view again to make sure I didn't miss anything. When viewing this I def recommend you stay focused and patient with it. The story was easy to understand but just make sure you do not miss anything being said for about the first hour & 1/2. In this time the main themes and ideas are being expressed. The rest of the film is a lot of action not too much either.

This story/writing is brilliant as well as directing. CN def deserves a nom in both categories for this film. Should he win? To soon to tell, but as for now I would say yes to both. Is this best pic material? Still too soon to tell but if I had to pick a best film of this year as of now, this would be it.

LD did a great job in this. I really praise his acting in this. Same with all of the cast. No one did a poor job at all. I really enjoyed Ellen Page in this. I was happy she did so well. I must say I am not a big fan of hers but thats bc I haven't seen a great amount of stuff she has done. JGL was really good. He is one of my fav actors right now and he did not disappoint.

This is my kind of film. It made me think, think what is happening and what would happen next. I highly urge and recommend anyone to see this.

HOLY SH*T this movie is number 3 on IMDB for top 250 movies of all time.

You gotta respect Christopher Nolan and Dicaprio

[lDlisturb3d]

Total Recall

Movie 4/5
PQ HORRIBLE


I cant lie its hard for me to review this movie without talking about how great inception was or mention Leonardo's name.

Total Recall was pretty good, perhaps the freakiest movie ive seen, but very entertaining and well acted. I would categorize this movie as a Action, Physco-Thiller, very fun and gory. Overall the movie was worth the view but not worth the extra money for the Blu Ray version, as stated in my headline that the PQ is below average. I think the movie was also well directed, and extremely creative. Bravo 4/5.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by Q!

King Kong Extended Version.

This was perfect for having a hangover, really enjoyed the whole experience. But this movie has always been a mixed bag for me, it's intense and enthralling, but also can be a bit contrived with the acting and the pacing isn't perfect for me either. I'm sure it was intentional that the actors were to be melodramatic, or like Jack Black's "oh my, this is very ominous" look he had during the 1/3 of the movie, I was just a tad annoyed with it. 1/3 part of the movie, all the characters were introduced and the world they live in, poverty and lack of jobs and such and the trip to the island, there was way too much build-up set up for the anticipation of seeing Kong and the island for me. 2/3 of the movie is where it really shines, one exciting action scene after another and a few suspenseful survival scenes too. I'm literally impressed with it, the CGI ranged from "passable" to "convincing", mostly in between though, but very impressed with it also as this was released in 2005! Definitely one of the most memorable experiences for me. The last part 3/3 of the movie, though I think it's shorter than the other two? I understand it's supposed to be the the emotional peak and heart of the movie, the relationship between Kong and Ann and all. It did affect me and I felt sorry for them, but also it was too long and not as interesting as the 2/3 part of the movie. I wasn't cringing when Jack Black delivered the last famous line in the movie, what's the big deal?

PQ 5/5 I wasn't scrutinizing it, but it pretty much looked PERFECT to me, this is what Blu-ray is about.
AQ 5/5 I use a Pioneer DVD Surround Sound Player for the audio, though not the best equipment it was great, I was almost in awe of Kong's voice.

8/10
I can't give this momumental movie less than that, also not more as there are too many things I don't like about it as well. This movie is so big I've probably forgot many things I wanted to say.

I'm a big fan, as I know surf is. PQ is the epitome of demo.

[jhiggy23]

Originally Posted by lDlisturb3d

HOLY SH*T this movie is number 3 on IMDB for top 250 movies of all time.

You gotta respect Christopher Nolan and Dicaprio

Or not. TDK was in the top 5 for awhile and still might be. Those rankings mean absolutely zero. There are innumerable films that are considered among the greatest ever by critics that aren't even in the top 250. Just saying

I was supposed to see Inception tonite at 10:15 but I think I'm gonna pass. I def look forward to the movie, but it'll get over too late. I'm sure the movie is great but I also know that just like TDK, it's going to be VASTLY overhyped by the fanboys. (by that I mean that it may be a 4 star film, but I highly doubt it's one of the best films ever).

[lDlisturb3d]

Originally Posted by jhiggy23

Or not. TDK was in the top 5 for awhile and still might be. Those rankings mean absolutely zero. There are innumerable films that are considered among the greatest ever by critics that aren't even in the top 250. Just saying

I was supposed to see Inception tonite at 10:15 but I think I'm gonna pass. I def look forward to the movie, but it'll get over too late. I'm sure the movie is great but I also know that just like TDK, it's going to be VASTLY overhyped by the fanboys. (by that I mean that it may be a 4 star film, but I highly doubt it's one of the best films ever).

Jiggy just dont go see the movie being bias, watch it with a clear mind, and you will see why some rumors might just be true.

I will respect you more if you honestly didnt go into the theater already thinking its a 4. Ive seen the reviews you've given on this site and a fan boy will give inception 15/10 but i have no doubt that you will rate it 10/10. Thats if your honest with yourself.