Here's some reviews I wrote a while back. I know I've posted some of them before, but I don't recall which ones.
Iron Man
[Show spoiler]Summary
Wealthy defense contractor Tony Stark is arrogant, selfish, and obsessed with success. Running his late father's company, Stark Industries, Tony spends his days drinking, partying, and sleeping with any attractive woman who will let him. He is admired for his genius-level intellect, but rarely anyone truly loves or respects him, save for his loyal secretary Virginia "Pepper" Potts, friend James Rhodes, and mentor / business partner, Obadiah Stane.
But all of that changes when tragedy strikes. While visiting American troops in Afghanistan, Tony's caravan is hit, and he is mortally wounded by weapon shrapnel. Abducted by terrorists, his life is saved by a fellow prisoner named Yinsen. A crude, prototype implant is installed in Tony's chest, which serves to keep his heart safe using electromagnetic energy. The terrorists want Stark to build them a powerful missile; instead, he secretly constructs a suit of armor, and stages a daring escape. During the raid, Yinsen lies gravely injured. With his dying words, he urges Stark not to waste his second chance at life. Thanking him for his help, Tony escapes the compound, but crashes in the desert. Saved by Rhodes and his military crew, Tony returns to Los Angeles.
The day of his comeback, things start to change. Tony declares that his father's company will no longer make wartime weapons, which shocks the media and causes friction with Obadiah Stane. Alone in his penthouse complex, Stark begins a new project: the creation of a suit far more advanced than his first attempt. Refining the design, he constructs a sleek, shiny effort that flies, and is loaded with tons of defensive capabilities. After a few test runs, he journeys overseas, and annihilates the terrorist compund completely, saving several Afghani lives in the process. But the military don't know what's been happening, so they target this "new threat", intending to destroy it. Dodging several fighter planes in a stylish air battle, the reborn Stark escapes, barely intact.
But an unseen enemy lurks in the shadows, and soon makes its move. The terrorist leader of the Ten Rings organization (Tony's abductors) still lives, and recieves a visit from none other than Stane himself! Power-hungry and unstable, Obadiah wants to destroy Stark, and take his technology for his own dark purposes. Building a bigger, more lethal version of Tony's creation, he dubs himself the Iron Monger. Facing him in armed conflict, Stark is forced to overload a huge energy core, which destroys Stane and almost kills him, too!
A few days later, a healing Tony approaches a throng of reporters at a press conference. Reading at first from a prepared statement, he instead sighs, and announces his heroics to the world. Shortly, Stark is contacted late at night, by a tall man in a black coat, wearing an eyepatch. Identifying himself as Nick Fury, he wants Stark's cooperation in a project called the Avengers Initiative...
Review
As a child, I hadn't read many of the "Iron Man" comics at all; instead, my primary frame of reference was from the 1990s cartoon series. So, I was both excited and nervous when I sat down to watch the latest entry in Marvel Comics' string of blockbusters. I'd seen the trailers and such online, so I knew there was a ton of anticipation for this film. I hoped than unlike some movies, this would live up to the hype...and that it did, in spades.
Stories of good vs. evil have been around since the beginning of time; this merely gives it a technological frame from which to build further. In this story, Tony Stark is similar to another billionaire: DC's own Bruce Wayne, a.k.a. "Batman". For example, both lost their parents at a very young age, and use their wealth and influence to fight crime. But the differences are present, and noteworthy. Where Bruce used a playboy persona to reduce attention to his life as a hero, Stark is a man standing in the shadow of a famous father, while living a life of selfish ambition and desire. He dates only the most beautiful women, buys things strictly based on their price, and drinks his cares away in ignorant bliss. But like Bruce Wayne, whose life changed when he lived among criminals to learn their ways, Stark also faces a change, brought on by an extreme confrontation with his own mortality.
As for the actors and their respective performances, I enjoyed them very much. Avi Arad (former head of Marvel) said that Robert Downey, Jr. was chosen because of his own downward spiral in both career and life. His past expereinces with drugs, alcohol, and the law made him ideal to play a character going through many similar circumstances. He plays the false bravado, arrogance, and genius of Stark with perfect clarity...and later, he amps everything up by playing the reborn industrialist as someone who's found his calling, determined to follow it regardless.
Terrence Howard is good as James Rhodes, who in the comics eventually becomes War Machine. A great moment in the film serves as allusion to that, and director Jon Favreau intends to pursue it in a planned sequel. He also admitted to cutting much of Howard's screentime for the theatrical release, but has assured fans it will be reinstated for a Director's Cut DVD.
Gwyneth Paltrow gives Stark's secretary, Pepper, a witty charm, daring strength, and tender vulnerability all at once. Ever the loyal friend, she risks her life to protect a man she trusts and loves in many ways. Even when under extreme distress, she never wavers, loyal to a fault. Jeff Bridges is cool, calm, and all-out insane as someone whose greed and lust for power control his every decision. He's like the master puppeteer, pulling strings from behind the curtain like the famous Wizard of Oz...and when he faces Iron Man directly, every hint of anger and hatred comes out, loud and clear.
The effects in this film are outstanding, to say the least. From a huge explosion in a Middle Eastern mountain site, to a "clash of the titans" near downtown L.A., this film makes full use of every weapon in its arsenal. High-flying moments are funny and bold, raising the adventure level that much higher. From brightly-lit chrome, gold, and steel, to lush parties and excellent costumes, the design of this film is great...makes me wonder what they'll do for the Blu-Ray release.
The music is mostly instrumental, with one notable exception: "Iron Man" by hard-rock band Black Sabbath, whose song was one of several inspirations for the character. Elsewhere, magnificent guitar riffs and synthesizer beats express the tone of a man gone horribly downhill, who's turned around towards the light. The danger, humor, and stylish themes rock this piece to its foundation.
Finally, my criticisms. Being my least-favorite part of any review, I include them as warnings for discerning hearts. While not as bad as the recent "sex comedy" trends, this film does contain a few moments which first-time viewers should be made aware of.
The first is probably the most central: Tony Stark's philandering ways prior to his rebirth. On one occasion, he beds a reporter he's known less than an hour, and leaves her alone the next morning. She enounters Pepper, who graciously maintains her own integrity while informing the woman she's due to leave. Later, when asked how she took the dismissal, Pepper replies, "Like a champ". Another moment takes place on board a jet, with dancing flight attendants who've knotted their shirts below their bustlines. The addition of an (unused) stripper's pole sets up a potential encounter, which thankfully remains off-screen for the duration of the film.
Another concern is the presence of alcohol. While not (yet) a raging alocholic, Stark is definitely fond of "the drink", often seen with a glass in his hand at one time or another. Though his rebirth definitely turns him onto a brighter path, Tony is still a man with many issues to resolve by the film's end.
My final concerns are violence and language. This film was rated PG-13 by the MPAA, and while it fits the film's content, I felt it was pushing boundaries in some respects (especially the sexual ones). Due to the nature of the story (a billionaire in a robotic flight suit, against terrorists and his own technology), violence is prevalent, though not extreme or overt. As for the language, it definitely fits with the MPAA rating, but that doesn't say much, considering the comics conatin little to none. The swearing isn't extremely abrasive (unlike films such as the R-rated "Matrix" trilogy), but its presence is felt.
On the whole, I give this film 8 stars out of 10, deducting two points for sexual situations and language, respectively. Unlike prior films such as "Daredevil" or "Fantastic Four", Marvel Studios made this film in-house, using Paramount Pictures solely for publicity and distribution. This afforded them greater control over the property, and it shows to an extent. However, while I truly enjoy this film, I feel there are wrinkles which need smoothing, especially if Marvel is to continue on a path of responsible integrity.
Batman Begins
[Show spoiler]Summary
As a young boy, Bruce Wayne's life was changed forever when his parents were murdered in front of him. Later in life, he plans to kill the man responsible, Joe Chill, whose recent deal with the Gotham DA's office has resulted in his release. But when Chill is shot at the trial by an agent working for mob boss Carmine Falcone, Bruce loses his chance for vengeance. Enraged, he faces Falcone, who says he'll never understand criminals until he experiences their desperation. Taking this to heart, Bruce leaves everything behind, telling no one. For seven years, he lives alone among lawbreakers, learning their motives to prepare for his new role: defender of the weak, turning the fears of evildoers against them.
Taking refuge in a Bhutanese prison, Bruce is enlisted by the mysterious Ra's Al Ghul, whose "League of Shadows" seeks to bring peace to the whole world, by any means necesssary. Bruce trains to become a member, but is labeled a traitor when he refuses to kill a defenseless thief. Setting Ghul's palace ablaze, Bruce escapes, saving friend and mentor Henri Ducard in the process. Leaving a comatose Ducard in the care of residents, Wayne departs.
Returning home, Bruce reunites with his loyal friend and butler, Alfred, who assists in his desire to protect the people. In a city largely run by crooked cops and the mob, Wayne has his work cut out for him. Enlisting the aid of technical genius Lucius Fox, Gotham's "favored son" secretly takes on a whole new persona: the "Bat-Man". Following his first appearance (where he disables a group of Falcone's thieves), public opinion is soon divided. Police comissioner Loeb hates how Bat-Man has taken control over "his city", while loyal officer James Gordon sees the brighter side of things. Meanwhile, psychologist Dr. Jonathan Crane plans to overthrow the caped crusader. Following a chase through downtown Gotham, Bat-Man rescues attorney and friend Rachel Dawes from a hallucinogen attack. Together, they work to bring down Falcone's empire for good. But Crane has hidden connections.
At his lavish birthday party, Bruce is stunned to encounter Henri Ducard, in fact the true Ra's Al Ghul! Burning down Wayne Manor, Ghul leaves Bruce for dead. Rescued by Alfred, he barely survives, escaping via the hidden elevator to his underground lair. With nothing left to lose, Bruce dons the cowl of Bat-Man again, to challenge Ghul on the city streets. Enlisting Gordon's help to stop Ghul's plans, catastrophic results are barely avoided. Shortly after, Bruce makes plans to rebuild the Manor, while Gordon is promoted in rank to Lieutenant. On the roof of police headquarters, the two heroes discuss the coming escalation of crime, Gordon citing a strange example. Handing over an evidence bag, Bat-Man sees a single playing card, marked with a Joker. Promising "I'll look into it", the hero takes his acrobatic leave...
Review
As a child, I was familiar with both the campy 1960s "Batman" television series starring Adam West, and Tim Burton's much more serious 1989 effort, which pitted Michael Keaton and Jack Nicholson against each other. But my main area of influence was the 1990s animated series created by Bruce Timm, and director Joel Schumacher's previous two entries: 1995's "Batman Forever", and 1997's much campier "Batman & Robin". After the box-office failure of the latter, Warner Bros. put the silver-screen franchise on hold for a while. Like they'd done with Superman decades before, the studio kept the legend alive mostly through television. For five years, there was little word but rumors, and many fans wondered if another entry would be made at all.
But in 2003, director Christopher Nolan ("Insomnia") and skilled screenwriter David Goyer ("Blade") began forming an ultra-secret approach. Rather than continue where Schumacher left off, they decided to go back to the beginning. At that point, even the comics had never given a definitive account of Bruce's heroic journey; instead, there was a gap of at least 7 years, before he resurfaces in Gotham as an adult. Unwilling to pass up this opportunity, the filmmakers decided to set the film at the beginning of the Dark Knight's career, when Gotham City was truly at its worst. A deliberate decision was also made to keep most of the cops "on the take", so there'd be a proper window for Batman to operate in.
In my humble opinion, this movie completely rocks. It is, by far, one of the best comic-based films of all time. Like Marvel's "X-Men" and "Spider-Man" franchises before it, DC's "Begins" has enough adventure, drama, and overall horsepower to knock most movies on their collective asses. Now, to be fair, the film does have a few small problems (what film doesn't?), but those will be addressed shortly.
First things first: the acting. Christian Bale knocks things right out of the park, as both Bruce Wayne and his crime-fighting alter-ego. One thing of note, however, is the fact that unlike his predecessors, Bale brings Bruce to life in ways that make people actually care for him. In this version of the story, Bruce is much more than some lavish playboy with an affinity for bats. He's a very tragic figure, full of anger and guilt. But he's also a hero, selflessly trying to save Gotham from the crooks who have corrupted it.
Michael Caine...what to say? This guy has pretty much nailed everything I've ever seen him in; his dedication to his craft is more than obvious. As Alfred, Caine gives the Wayne family butler much more depth than previously seen. He's a sort of surrogate father to Bruce, helping to raise him after his parents' death. In later years, he also keeps Bruce rather humble, showing no fear in advising the brash young heir when it concerns his new mission.
As assistant district attorney Rachel Dawes, Katie Holmes' portrayal works for the story, but seems a bit off-kilter at times. Her role in this movie was blasted by fans and non-fans alike. Personally, I'd give her a 7/10, but that's just me. It would've been nice to actually see her in a legal trial, since she's supposed to be somewhat of a hotshot.
Morgan Freeman "eats the scenery" as the slightly-comedic yet very determined Lucius Fox, who shares a silent bond of trust and knowledge with Bruce. Liam Neeson is brilliant as the mysterious Henri Ducard, starting as an ally, then eventually morphs into an enemy. Tom Wilkinson and Cillian Murphy don't get much overall screen time, but they truly inhabit their respective parts as Carmine Falcone and the sadistic Jonathan Crane.
Finally, we have the grand chameleon of all actors, Gary Oldman. He's played everything from the King of Vampires in "Bram Stoker's Dracula" and a murderous terrorist in "Air Force One", to a mischievous, wish-granting imp in "Interstate 60". He's gone to nearly every side and angle of the character spectrum, and his turn as Gordon is no exception. The one decent and honest cop in a department of traitors, Gordon keeps his integrity while challenging injustice at every turn.
The Incredible Hulk
[Show spoiler]Summary
Five years ago, brilliant scientist Bruce Banner was exposed to an apparently-lethal dose of gamma radiation...and yet, he survived. But the incident left him with a terrible condition, one that he keeps secret even from the woman he loves, Betty Ross. When Bruce's pulse reaches 200 (usually through anger), he loses control of the mutation within, and a new being emerges. A nine-foot, muscular powerhouse of untold rage, this persona is given a name: The Hulk.
At the film's start, Bruce is a fugitive, working in a bottling plant near Brazil. Maintaining contact with only an online pal named "Mr. Blue", Bruce is desperate to cure his condition. But soon, he's running again, pursued by soldiers under the authority of military general Thaddeus Ross, Betty's estranged father! Unable to overpower the Hulk, Ross authorizes a similar procedure for a willing soldier: aging and tempermental Emil Blonsky.
Making his way home to the United States, Bruce reunites with Betty, but is driven away by the U.S. Army. Cornered, Bruce's transformation takes place, and the Hulk wages a savage war against his opponents. In the ensuing chaos, Betty is almost killed; saved by the Hulk, she's taken into hiding. Thaddeus is forced to re-evaluate his choices, left speechless by what has transpired.
The next day, Betty and a reverted Bruce meet "Mr. Blue" in person: in fact, he is Samuel Sterns, an equally-brilliant scientist and educator. Testing his theories, Sterns succeeds in releasing the Hulk, but almost loses control of the experiment. It's Betty's love for Bruce that results in a reversal, and he returns to normal. Shortly after, Bruce and Betty depart...but Sterns is confronted by a maddened Blonsky, who demands the genius repeat the procedure for him. Unfortunately, Blonsky's new form becomes permanent, and he rages through the city streets in a blind fury, demanding that Banner face him. Left with no choice, Bruce forces his alter-ego to surface, by deliberately dropping himself from a high-flying helicopter.
Freed and angry, the Hulk faces Blonsky's monstrous form in a battle of champions. Warring for dominance, they tear through the alleys and rooftops of New York. The Hulk is almost beaten, but summons his last ounce of rage to gain the upper hand. About to kill Blonsky for good, the Hulk hesitates, as Banner's humanity takes hold inside him. Fleeing, he disappears, leaving Betty, Thaddeus, and an unconscious Blonsky behind.
Some time later, Bruce is seen in British Columbia, living a quiet life. Meditating, his eyes glow green, and he smiles. Back in the States, General Ross has a surprise visit from billionaire Tony Stark, who suggests he consider a team that's in development...
Review
OK, this movie is by far among the top motion pictures of 2008. The characters, story, effects, and music are top-notch in nearly every way. But more than that, it has a heart, and that's what really makes good movies shine. I honestly didn't know what to expect of this film, especially after director Ang Lee's capable but controversial 2003 effort. Apart from the common connection to the legendary comic book created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby, this film bears no relation to its predecessor. It does, however, draw many of its themes and references from the famed 1970s television series, which starred Bill Bixby as Banner. Lou Ferrigno, that series' Hulk, lends his voice to this film's version, and has a cameo appearance as a pizza-loving security guard.
The casting of this film is both surprising and appropriate. As Banner, Edward Norton truly shines. He fills Bixby's shoes amazingly well, and I for one was both shocked and amused by how much I enjoyed his portrayal. William Hurt gives Thaddeus Ross a mix of disillusionment and sincerity. As the iron-willed General, Hurt exudes both confidence and compassion, playing a man torn between his hatred for Bruce, and his love for Betty.
Which brings me to what is possibly my favorite portrayal of a Marvel heroine in recent memory. Matched only by Kirsten Dunst's role as Mary-Jane Watson in the "Spider-Man" franchise, Liv Tyler is smart, sassy, sexy, and courageous. She gives Betty Ross an empathy that really makes you feel for her. The chemistry between Betty and Bruce is undeniable; it's both romantic and passionate, yet honest and ultimately selfless (a rarity in today's cinematic marketplace).
As soldier-turned-villian Emil Blonsky, Tim Roth portrays a soldier who's bloodthirsty in his heart. He's become addicted to the violence and brutality of military conflict, and appears disgusted by the limitations of his aging physique. He's a man bent on amassing power, at almost any cost...and he despises in Banner the one thing he lacks: a conscience. Tim Blake Nelson also makes a wonderfully-comedic appearance as Samuel Sterns (who in the comics became The Leader, a powerful villian).
Next up are the stunning visual effects. The Hulk in this film is (literally and figuratively) generations ahead of Ang Lee's attempt. Muscle, bone, veins, facial expressions...each and every frame of animation speaks volumes about who this behemoth truly is. The comic character was clearly based on works such as Tarzan, and Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde". The film takes those elements, and rachets them upward to stratospheric levels. The Hulk of this picture is both monstrous and human, to the extent that it's very easy to forget he's been animated. Edward Norton performed much of the Hulk's movement himself, through the use of motion-capture technology; as a result, the believability of Banner becoming this giant, green force of destruction is extremely reliable. The only character I've ever seen done to this kind of level is that of Gollum, the obsessed and lonely creature from Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings". As for Blonsky's "Abombination" persona, I felt it was definitely threatening, but looked too inhuman for my tastes; I'm sure some will disagree. The fights between both characters were definitely stunning, but I feel the Abomination could've been designed better.
Characters aside, the other effects were done very well. Fire is often cited as one of the most difficult elements to reproduce for film, but the explosions and such in this movie are well done. The realism in practical effects is pushed very far, but not to the point of losing its credibility. By comparison, the flame abilities used by Pyro in "X2" seem almost cartoonish. The helicopters, tanks, and digital doubles were all amazing, and blended perfectly with the live action.
Last (but by no means least) is the music. The score for this adventure is just great. Each and every dramatic scene is done with an almost poetic flair, while the action sequences rock beyond words. Major props to the production for including the "Lonely Man" theme from the Bixby series, and to all the composers and musicians who contributed their talents. The symphony of this film is truly remarkable.
Finally, my critcisms. Few as they are, they must be mentioned. First, language: this is a PG-13 film with a moderate tone, and swearing is kept to a minimum, though it is present. Exclamations of "dammit" and "shit" are not uncommon, though not excessive (they are mainly uttered by Ross, Blonsky, and once or twice by Banner himself). Betty uses "*******" in describing a cabbie, while God's name is combined twice with "damn", which I feel is always inappropriate. Violence is expected with a film of this nature; soldiers and civilians are killed, though their deaths are neither explicit nor gory (many, in fact, happen offscreen, leaving the details to be filled in by the imagination of the viewer).
The only remaining negativity I have towards this film entails one minor scene, where Betty and Bruce nearly have sex while resting in a motel room. No explicit nudity is seen, though Liv Tyler appears to be dressed in little more than a heavy, long overshirt. Their encounter is soon stalled by Bruce's quickening pulse (which makes for a funny moment), but discerning families should be aware of its inclusion.
On the whole, I give this film 8 stars out of 10, deducting two points for language and the scene mentioned above. It's a wonderful, action-packed thrill ride of a movie, but unlike some blockbusters, this one has a ton of heart, and shows it in many ways. I'm (mostly) proud of Marvel Studios for this one; in my opinion, it leaves Ang Lee's effort in the dust, and is almost certain to be an incredible smash (puns most definitely intended). Marvel is clearly setting this up for not only a sequel, but also connecting it to their proposed "Avengers" film, scheduled for 2011. It'll be interesting to see what time makes of it. In addition, director Louis Leterrier is supposedly planning an Extended Cut of this film for the DVD market. Hopefully, that edition will have even more thrills, and retain the positive elements that made this a welcome journey. To the future! =)
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I'll admit that I could see parts of it coming when I saw it.
So, I'm reposting them along with the other films I've watched since then. Here it goes... 
Definitely a new personal favorite. 
I'm just a sucker for that type of ending. 
A lesser-known classic that's incredibly brilliant and eerie.
). My anticipations would be either...
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