The Movie Review and Discussion Thread

[Al_The_Strange]

Originally Posted by Foggy

Consider me pleased

Reminds me of the good old days, when I made my friend completely sick and tired of hearing me talk about how excited, and when it came out, I managed to get about 15 - 20 people to go, and they all loved it completely. They never argued with my judgement again (up until Scott Pilgrim, it was mixed, many loved it, others who I no longer talk to didn't).

It was just such a pump of energy. Maybe because I was finally seeing the film for real, maybe because that final half hour is such kick. Man I wish I was that excited for the sequel

Sounds like good times.

Now that I've read the second comic, I'm pretty excited for it. The story for it definitely has some awesome twists and turns in it (even if they do water it down some). The big battle in Times Square should be spectacular.

Shame we have to wait until next year. Or, for that matter, wait until they actually film the thing, starting next month.

[SquidPuppet]

Originally Posted by Al_The_Strange

“Kick-Ass”

[Show spoiler]“Come on, be honest with yourself. At some point in our lives we all wanna be a superhero.” – Aaron Johnson

For the past hundred years, superhero lore has emerged as a type of modern day mythology, depicting these fantastic tales of romanticized vigilantism where all the heroes have some kind of incredible power and they use it for the greater good. But let’s be serious: there is no such thing as a real superhero. In this day and age, however, some people have been inspired by the comics and films and have taken to the streets, dressed in costumes, to fight crime and help the communities.

In light of this, “Kick-Ass” is a story that eschews the fantasy and candidly faces the facts. This is not a world where people like Batman, Superman, the X-Men, or whoever can save the day and get the girl completely unscathed. Nor is it a world where everything is a concrete black-and-white good-vs-evil affair. Crimes happen and people often just look on without bothering to intervene. Real heroes get the snot beaten out of them, and can even die; there is no invincibility, only vulnerabilities. The film shows all of this straight-up, approaching the subject of masked vigilantism in a light that’s far more realistic than most other superhero films to date (a few other good contenders being “Super” and “Watchmen”).

However, this film is not all about the realism. In fact, realism in superhero lore is just something the film harps on sarcastically. The film has its share of crazy action, extreme violence, and includes some scenes that are just too crazy to happen in real life. The film is also quite the comedy, loaded up with funny lines and situations that are so sad that they’re funny (or just plain funny). It pulls a lot of punches, delivering a shock and awe style of entertainment that will likely offend the most sensitive and conservative of viewers (this film will likely be forever notorious for showcasing an eleven-year-old girl cutting people up and cursing like an adult: you have been warned!). At the same time, the film is colorful and upbeat, contrasting heavily with the messed-up violence and situations; the poignant combination of light and dark is part of what makes the film so funny, so provocative, and so thrilling.

No matter how offensive or unbelievable things get, the story still matters, and it is quite strong. With the premise mentioned above, it does invoke some thought concerning masked vigilantism. It also ties in with the character and helps weave a tale of the characters’ origins. The film follows the comic pretty closely, with only a few liberties taken (including an alternate take on the love interest, which I find better in the film than in the comic).

The film is certainly stylish, with quality photography and unique editing effects. There is one scene I find quite erratic with its use of strobe lighting, but it is mercifully short. Acting is good: Aaron Johnson, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Nicholas Cage, and Mark Strong all fulfill their respective roles really well. Exceptional praise goes to Chloe Moretz, whose performance for Hit Girl shows remarkable physical aptitude and skillful nuance (in addition to putting up with the vulgar script). Writing is not bad, cursing and all. This is one of those movies that looks more expensive than it is; all of the sets, props, and costumes look snazzy, with just a few weak spots. There is a plethora of interesting musical choices in this film, and they all help in the experience.

While I find that the vast majority of superhero films entertain one way or another, “Kick-Ass” is a one-of-a-kind feature that entertains by shattering the standard conventions and smacking the viewers upside the head. Chances are that some of you viewers will find this distasteful; if you are easily offended, then you should probably avoid this film like the plague. For most everybody else, it comes recommended!

5/5 (Entertainment: Perfect | Story: Very Good | Film: Very Good) Increased from 4.5/5

Really? Hmmm. Maybe I need to give this a shot.

[Al_The_Strange]

Originally Posted by SquidPuppet

Really? Hmmm. Maybe I need to give this a shot.

You haven't yet?

[BladeRunner2007]

Evil Dead II 5/5

Imo the best film of the trilogy. I adore it so much!

[Romulus]

So I'm going to be graduating this December with a film degree. This final semester I have to do a capstone project which consists of screening a film and doing a follow up presentation that supposed to last for an hour or so. I'm not too nervous about it, as there's only 10 people in the class or so. I certainly know I can do the work load too.

What I do not know is what film I'm going to do it over. He gave us a list of films and told us to pick three to bring to class next Tuesday, then we'll decide who does what film.

So the three I have chosen are: Umberto D., Ikiru, and The Lives of Others.

I have not seen either Umberto D. or Ikiru. He encouraged us to pick a film that we had not seen before, but that it wasn't absolutely necessary.

Our professor is EXTREMELY intelligent. He offers film analysis like I haven't seen before, so this is an incredible opportunity.

I just wanted to ask what you guys think I should choose.

[P@t_Mtl]

Rembrant (1936)

Charles Laughton as Rembrandt is nothing short of amazing. I would say he is a sort of classic Robert Deniro where he transform himself into the character that he is suppose to play. The movie goes from when Rembrant is already a succesful painter to him slowly losing his popularity because of his personality and actions. The final scene with Laughton now transform into an old Rembrant about to paint a self portrait is probably worth seeing just for that alone, the way Laughton play's it is quite incredible. Quality of the DVD is again good, not amazing but very adequate considering the source. I classify this one as high recommended

[KilloWertz]

Originally Posted by jvince

The blu-ray should be Tony Scott's version. The Tarantino Cut I watched is a fan edit based on the original screenplay.

They're having a screening of this later here in LA, with Tarantino and Richard Kelly (Donnie Darko) as special guests! I wanted some tickets but I was too late.

That's what I figured. I just had to make sure. It'll likely be a while, but I will definitely check it out.

That sucks.

Originally Posted by Al_The_Strange

“Kick-Ass”

[Show spoiler]“Come on, be honest with yourself. At some point in our lives we all wanna be a superhero.” – Aaron Johnson

For the past hundred years, superhero lore has emerged as a type of modern day mythology, depicting these fantastic tales of romanticized vigilantism where all the heroes have some kind of incredible power and they use it for the greater good. But let’s be serious: there is no such thing as a real superhero. In this day and age, however, some people have been inspired by the comics and films and have taken to the streets, dressed in costumes, to fight crime and help the communities.

In light of this, “Kick-Ass” is a story that eschews the fantasy and candidly faces the facts. This is not a world where people like Batman, Superman, the X-Men, or whoever can save the day and get the girl completely unscathed. Nor is it a world where everything is a concrete black-and-white good-vs-evil affair. Crimes happen and people often just look on without bothering to intervene. Real heroes get the snot beaten out of them, and can even die; there is no invincibility, only vulnerabilities. The film shows all of this straight-up, approaching the subject of masked vigilantism in a light that’s far more realistic than most other superhero films to date (a few other good contenders being “Super” and “Watchmen”).

However, this film is not all about the realism. In fact, realism in superhero lore is just something the film harps on sarcastically. The film has its share of crazy action, extreme violence, and includes some scenes that are just too crazy to happen in real life. The film is also quite the comedy, loaded up with funny lines and situations that are so sad that they’re funny (or just plain funny). It pulls a lot of punches, delivering a shock and awe style of entertainment that will likely offend the most sensitive and conservative of viewers (this film will likely be forever notorious for showcasing an eleven-year-old girl cutting people up and cursing like an adult: you have been warned!). At the same time, the film is colorful and upbeat, contrasting heavily with the messed-up violence and situations; the poignant combination of light and dark is part of what makes the film so funny, so provocative, and so thrilling.

No matter how offensive or unbelievable things get, the story still matters, and it is quite strong. With the premise mentioned above, it does invoke some thought concerning masked vigilantism. It also ties in with the character and helps weave a tale of the characters’ origins. The film follows the comic pretty closely, with only a few liberties taken (including an alternate take on the love interest, which I find better in the film than in the comic).

The film is certainly stylish, with quality photography and unique editing effects. There is one scene I find quite erratic with its use of strobe lighting, but it is mercifully short. Acting is good: Aaron Johnson, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Nicholas Cage, and Mark Strong all fulfill their respective roles really well. Exceptional praise goes to Chloe Moretz, whose performance for Hit Girl shows remarkable physical aptitude and skillful nuance (in addition to putting up with the vulgar script). Writing is not bad, cursing and all. This is one of those movies that looks more expensive than it is; all of the sets, props, and costumes look snazzy, with just a few weak spots. There is a plethora of interesting musical choices in this film, and they all help in the experience.

While I find that the vast majority of superhero films entertain one way or another, “Kick-Ass” is a one-of-a-kind feature that entertains by shattering the standard conventions and smacking the viewers upside the head. Chances are that some of you viewers will find this distasteful; if you are easily offended, then you should probably avoid this film like the plague. For most everybody else, it comes recommended!

5/5 (Entertainment: Perfect | Story: Very Good | Film: Very Good) Increased from 4.5/5

Recommendation: Watch it mother-f*$%^er!!!

This Blu-Ray’s quality totally kicks ass!

PQ: 5/5, AQ: 5/5

Favorite film of 2010. Yes, Foggy isn't the only one.

I would like to thank Foggy one more time though.

[lDlisturb3d]

Originally Posted by Al_The_Strange

“Kick-Ass”

[Show spoiler]“Come on, be honest with yourself. At some point in our lives we all wanna be a superhero.” – Aaron Johnson

For the past hundred years, superhero lore has emerged as a type of modern day mythology, depicting these fantastic tales of romanticized vigilantism where all the heroes have some kind of incredible power and they use it for the greater good. But let’s be serious: there is no such thing as a real superhero. In this day and age, however, some people have been inspired by the comics and films and have taken to the streets, dressed in costumes, to fight crime and help the communities.

In light of this, “Kick-Ass” is a story that eschews the fantasy and candidly faces the facts. This is not a world where people like Batman, Superman, the X-Men, or whoever can save the day and get the girl completely unscathed. Nor is it a world where everything is a concrete black-and-white good-vs-evil affair. Crimes happen and people often just look on without bothering to intervene. Real heroes get the snot beaten out of them, and can even die; there is no invincibility, only vulnerabilities. The film shows all of this straight-up, approaching the subject of masked vigilantism in a light that’s far more realistic than most other superhero films to date (a few other good contenders being “Super” and “Watchmen”).

However, this film is not all about the realism. In fact, realism in superhero lore is just something the film harps on sarcastically. The film has its share of crazy action, extreme violence, and includes some scenes that are just too crazy to happen in real life. The film is also quite the comedy, loaded up with funny lines and situations that are so sad that they’re funny (or just plain funny). It pulls a lot of punches, delivering a shock and awe style of entertainment that will likely offend the most sensitive and conservative of viewers (this film will likely be forever notorious for showcasing an eleven-year-old girl cutting people up and cursing like an adult: you have been warned!). At the same time, the film is colorful and upbeat, contrasting heavily with the messed-up violence and situations; the poignant combination of light and dark is part of what makes the film so funny, so provocative, and so thrilling.

No matter how offensive or unbelievable things get, the story still matters, and it is quite strong. With the premise mentioned above, it does invoke some thought concerning masked vigilantism. It also ties in with the character and helps weave a tale of the characters’ origins. The film follows the comic pretty closely, with only a few liberties taken (including an alternate take on the love interest, which I find better in the film than in the comic).

The film is certainly stylish, with quality photography and unique editing effects. There is one scene I find quite erratic with its use of strobe lighting, but it is mercifully short. Acting is good: Aaron Johnson, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Nicholas Cage, and Mark Strong all fulfill their respective roles really well. Exceptional praise goes to Chloe Moretz, whose performance for Hit Girl shows remarkable physical aptitude and skillful nuance (in addition to putting up with the vulgar script). Writing is not bad, cursing and all. This is one of those movies that looks more expensive than it is; all of the sets, props, and costumes look snazzy, with just a few weak spots. There is a plethora of interesting musical choices in this film, and they all help in the experience.

While I find that the vast majority of superhero films entertain one way or another, “Kick-Ass” is a one-of-a-kind feature that entertains by shattering the standard conventions and smacking the viewers upside the head. Chances are that some of you viewers will find this distasteful; if you are easily offended, then you should probably avoid this film like the plague. For most everybody else, it comes recommended!

5/5 (Entertainment: Perfect | Story: Very Good | Film: Very Good) Increased from 4.5/5

Recommendation: Watch it mother-f*$%^er!!!

This Blu-Ray’s quality totally kicks ass!

PQ: 5/5, AQ: 5/5

I have to agree, Kick Ass was definitely a great ride.

[lDlisturb3d]

Red Cliff (International Version)

To begin I've seen both this version and the theatrical version. I loved the TE so much that i sold it so i could purchase this in a later date. All i have to say its is probably one of the most epic battle movies ever made. In addition it is shot beautifully, the cinematography is great and the nature shots are amazing. The acting is beyond solid and the special effects are very John Woo'ish lol. SO you know what that means . Its been a long time since i seen a 5 star movie that makes me wanna rant about it but this is no doubt a SOILD film. I love the fight scenes (Battle Scenes). Everything is based off of formations, weather and just good strategy. The Generals get down, usually in War the little guys fight the but in this feature film the Big guys are extremely talented in combat. The PQ is very sharp, reminding me of Terrance Malik film (well not as good but you can see the resemblance). In addition the AQ is very very good. This disc is 100% Reference material, there are some parts of the movie where you can see the pores in the face of the warriors. There's no DNR at all, everything looks very very natural.

Shields are shattered, blood is spilled. Hearts are broken and love is mended. If i had to pick one word to describe this movie is would be simple GREAT! MUST OWN/MUST SEE!

Movie: 5/5
PQ: 5/5
AQ: 5/5


Overall: 5/5 MUST OWN

[P@t_Mtl]

Originally Posted by lDlisturb3d

Red Cliff (International Version)

To begin I've seen both this version and the theatrical version. I loved the TE so much that i sold it so i could purchase this in a later date. All i have to say its is probably one of the most epic battle movies ever made. In addition it is shot beautifully, the cinematography is great and the nature shots are amazing. The acting is beyond solid and the special effects are very John Woo'ish lol. SO you know what that means . Its been a long time since i seen a 5 star movie that makes me wanna rant about it but this is no doubt a SOILD film. I love the fight scenes (Battle Scenes). Everything is based off of formations, weather and just good strategy. The Generals get down, usually in War the little guys fight the but in this feature film the Big guys are extremely talented in combat. The PQ is very sharp, reminding me of Terrance Malik film (well not as good but you can see the resemblance). In addition the AQ is very very good. This disc is 100% Reference material, there are some parts of the movie where you can see the pores in the face of the warriors. There's no DNR at all, everything looks very very natural.

Shields are shattered, blood is spilled. Hearts are broken and love is mended. If i had to pick one word to describe this movie is would be simple GREAT! MUST OWN/MUST SEE!

Movie: 5/5
PQ: 5/5
AQ: 5/5


Overall: 5/5 MUST OWN

Really enjoy this movie, just watched last month. I come back to it every 8 months or so since I first got my Asian imports back in 2009, both cost me a bundle but not regrets, great movie.

[KilloWertz]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

Really enjoy this movie, just watched last month. I come back to it every 8 months or so since I first got my Asian imports back in 2009, both cost me a nundle but not regrets, great movie.

Sorry, I have to do it...

What is a nundle?

[lDlisturb3d]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

Really enjoy this movie, just watched last month. I come back to it every 8 months or so since I first got my Asian imports back in 2009, both cost me a nundle but not regrets, great movie.

Yeah i can see myself, looking at this movie 2x a year. Really really good, its artistic and barbaric all in one.

[P@t_Mtl]

Originally Posted by KilloWertz

Sorry, I have to do it...

What is a nundle?

You never heard of a nundle? It's what we call "paying a lot of money" up here in the greatest country in the world, it's what you American call a bundle, so 20th century

[lDlisturb3d]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

You never heard of a nundle? It's what we call "paying a lot of money" up here in the greatest country in the world, it's what you American call a bundle, so 20th century

I've never heard of a nundle before but im excellent with context clues lol. I figured as much

[KilloWertz]

Originally Posted by P@t_Mtl

You never heard of a nundle? It's what we call "paying a lot of money" up here in the greatest country in the world, it's what you American call a bundle, so 20th century

[Foggy]

Originally Posted by BladeRunner2007

Evil Dead II 5/5

Imo the best film of the trilogy. I adore it so much!

Groovy

[jvince]

Aliens (1986)
More fun and fast-paced compared to the moodier, slow-burning original. Alien is more like an art-house sci-fi horror, while this sequel is more of a Hollywood blockbuster type of flick. Over-reliant on contrivances. Repeat viewings expose its dumbness, but hey, it's fun, entertaining, and technically well-made.

[jvince]

Originally Posted by Foggy

Man I wish I was that excited for the sequel

You're not that excited for the sequel? I'm really looking forward to it, especially if they manage to get Carrey.

Originally Posted by KilloWertz

Favorite film of 2010. Yes, Foggy isn't the only one.

I would like to thank Foggy one more time though.

Originally Posted by lDlisturb3d

I have to agree, Kick Ass was definitely a great ride.

I think all of us here love Kick-Ass. It's one of my favorites of 2010 too.

Originally Posted by SquidPuppet

Really? Hmmm. Maybe I need to give this a shot.

Originally Posted by Al_The_Strange

You haven't yet?

Whaaat?! Come on, Squid... Join us...

[iam1bearcat]

Originally Posted by Romulus

So I'm going to be graduating this December with a film degree. This final semester I have to do a capstone project which consists of screening a film and doing a follow up presentation that supposed to last for an hour or so. I'm not too nervous about it, as there's only 10 people in the class or so. I certainly know I can do the work load too.

What I do not know is what film I'm going to do it over. He gave us a list of films and told us to pick three to bring to class next Tuesday, then we'll decide who does what film.

So the three I have chosen are: Umberto D., Ikiru, and The Lives of Others.

I have not seen either Umberto D. or Ikiru. He encouraged us to pick a film that we had not seen before, but that it wasn't absolutely necessary.

Our professor is EXTREMELY intelligent. He offers film analysis like I haven't seen before, so this is an incredible opportunity.

I just wanted to ask what you guys think I should choose.

my choice:

[Show spoiler]The Lives of Others

[KilloWertz]

Originally Posted by jvince

I think all of us here love Kick-Ass. It's one of my favorites of 2010 too.

I dunno about Diesel. I think it might be too good for him.