The Movie Review and Discussion Thread

[jvince]

"Bottle" by Kirsten Lepore (Official video) - YouTube

Bottle (2010)
dir. Kirsten Lepore

The Good: Ingenious concept -- A sand-man and a snow-woman communicate with each other through a bottle. Impressive stop-motion animation. Tight and well executed. Poetic and profound. And that ending...

The Bad: None.

The Bottom Line: Deceptively simple, this poignant tale of a long distance relationship might have you thinking about it for a while. Recommended.

[jvince]

Originally Posted by SquidPuppet

Where/how did you see this?

I was gonna embed the short, but it didn't work. I think the forum only allows YouTube videos. You could watch it on Vimeo if you're on your phone. If not, just search "L'accordeur".

[bingtau]

Wow, what a bad film. A shame they remade this one. I was at least expecting something kinda fun and sexy. Another example on why I dislike remakes 95% of the time. The only bright spot was Colin Farrell and even he was much to write home about. 4/10

[KilloWertz]

Originally Posted by Al_The_Strange

In a frevored anticipation of getting the latest video game in the mail, I decided to pop in:

Laura Croft: Tomb Raider

[Show spoiler]Since its initial release in 1996, Tomb Raider is one of the most prominent video game franchises. It did to games what Indiana Jones did to movies and what Clive Cussler did to books: they all tap into a certain sense of adventure, with ties in archeology and ancient history, and with liberal amounts of action and peril, to immerse the audience in a thrilling experience. Laura Croft may be well-known for her...ahem...bodily proportions...but she is an action heroine who could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Indy and Dirk Pitt, in terms of physique, confidence, knowledge, and wit.

Inevitably, the live-action film for Tomb Raider was released in 2001, with enough hype to build it up as one of the biggest action hits of the year. The film definitely tries its hardest to be cool and hip; right from the start, it's loaded with unusual camera tricks and movements, with lots of frivilous time-lapse shots and fast cuts. A high-tempo soundtrack accentuates the small wealth of shoot-outs, chases, fights, and athletic stunts. The film does entertain, and there are moments where the action does come off as being "cool" and still holds up. A lot of it is pretty senseless and frivilous, and there is an underlying impression that the film is merely emulating a game experience, boss fights and all. Regardless, the film is successful at being stylish and fun.

On the other hand, the style becomes so heavy-handed that it does bring down the experience a notch. Frequent flashbacks and other random scenes disrupt the flow of the film. Some scenes, especially toward the end, become so surreal and weird, they further disrupt what should otherwise be a straightforward adventure flick.

With these random scenes, however, the film does try its best to dig up some solid substance. The story is not bad, per se, and it does its best to add some backstory and relevance to the characters and plot. I'm certain the filmmakers (and some audiences too) geeked out when they saw John Voight playing Laura Croft's father. The actual plotline, however, is pretty screwy, and follows the exact same structure as a video game (cut-scene, enter new area, fight bad guys, fight boss, obtain artifact, continue to next zone). Laura Croft is a two-dimensional character at best (there's just not enough backstory to flesh her out into a full three dimensions, to say nothing of a fourth), while everybody else around her are flat and static.

As mentioned above, the film has style, for better or for worse. Acting is a strange animal to judge here; Angelina Jolie is easily the centerpiece of the show, and she fits the part physically (with what must be some implants ). She also does inject her character with a certain playfullness and wit that suits the character. Now that the game has evolved in so many different ways, however, I can't help but to regard Jolie's performance as an antiquated one-dimensional portrayal of Laura: it's the same as it was in the 90s, Laura as a hot and sexy action star, but not as anybody with nuanced depth or emotion. Emulating the classic Laura Croft, Jolie does a good job, but in the future, I'm certain that she'll be supplanted very easily (a reboot is surely inevitable). As far as everybody else goes, they're servicable at best. Except for a few witty lines, the writing is pretty bad. This production has decent sets, props, and costumes, but also some rather aged and bad special effects. Music tries its best to seem cool; the soundtrack is a favorite of mine, but it can serve as a distraction during the actual movie. The score is alright.

With all the style and action, and with the promise of seeing the classic video game character brought to life, the Tomb Raider movie seemed like a big movie event of my generation. It did its part well enough, but not without issues.

3.5/5 (Entertainment: Good | Story: Average | Film: Average)

Recommendation: As a rental.

I have the double-feature set from Germany, and I believe it's the same transfer as the US release. The Blu-Ray looks adequately sharp, but is prone to noise, grain, and weak contrast levels. Sound quality has its moments, but just doesn't pack the punch that it should.

PQ: 3.5/5, AQ: 3/5

-----
I'm still psyched to get the new game. Reviews have been phenomenal, but for months, I've geeked out at the possibility of actually having Laura Croft as a vulnerable, fully-fleshed-out character.

Spell her name right, man. It's Lara, not Laura.

The game is indeed pretty good. While I don't have a ton of time to play it right now, it has been pretty enjoyable so far.

[Al_The_Strange]

Originally Posted by KilloWertz

Spell her name right, man. It's Lara, not Laura.

Originally Posted by KilloWertz

The game is indeed pretty good. While I don't have a ton of time to play it right now, it has been pretty enjoyable so far.

That's good to hear. Got the Collector's Edition coming, but it looks like I'll have to wait another day or two. Until then, if time allows, I'll probably watch the sequel next.

[KilloWertz]

Originally Posted by Al_The_Strange

That's good to hear. Got the Collector's Edition coming, but it looks like I'll have to wait another day or two. Until then, if time allows, I'll probably watch the sequel next.

I was going to get the Collector's Edition, but with God of War coming out the week after, I decided to just get the regular one and put the $50 towards God of War's Collector's Edition. It does look nice though.

To keep it on topic, I know it won't happen, but it would be great if they got the actress who did the voice acting and motion capturing to play Lara in the reboot movie.

I haven't seen either of the movies in a long time. The never bothered to get the original since the sequel was never released on Blu-ray here. I only have the sequel on DVD.

[Al_The_Strange]

Originally Posted by KilloWertz

I was going to get the Collector's Edition, but with God of War coming out the week after, I decided to just get the regular one and put the $50 towards God of War's Collector's Edition. It does look nice though.

Smooth move boss. I'll be envious of your Kratos statue, steelbook, and digital soundtrack.

Originally Posted by KilloWertz

To keep it on topic, I know it won't happen, but it would be great if they got the actress who did the voice acting and motion capturing to play Lara in the reboot movie.

With today's technology, I'd think that would be viable. Lady must have an awesome voice.

Haven't seen any news about the reboot though; wikipedia still lists a projected date of 2013, but unless it pop up on us this year from beneath the radar, I'll bet it's still being worked out. Probably won't see anything new for a few more years.

Originally Posted by KilloWertz

I haven't seen either of the movies in a long time. The never bothered to get the original since the sequel was never released on Blu-ray here. I only have the sequel on DVD.

Yeah, it's a shame that they never released the second film stateside. That's why I opted for the German edition. It's a decent edition, English-friendly (save for the subtitled part toward the end of the first film), and region-free. Price isn't too terrible either.

It's probably been six or more years since I've seen these films, so it's interesting to see how well (or how poorly) they hold up.

[KilloWertz]

Originally Posted by Al_The_Strange

Smooth move boss. I'll be envious of your Kratos statue, steelbook, and digital soundtrack.

It's about time somebody is envious of me... Wait...

With today's technology, I'd think that would be viable. Lady must have an awesome voice.

I don't really have that much of an opinion of her voice exactly, but Camilla Luddington does do the part well, and is obviously pretty attractive.

Haven't seen any news about the reboot though; wikipedia still lists a projected date of 2013, but unless it pop up on us this year from beneath the radar, I'll bet it's still being worked out. Probably won't see anything new for a few more years.

No doubt it's still being worked out and it's not coming out this year. We would have heard who was playing Lara Croft before now since the character has always been relevant, even if the series hasn't been that relevant in years until the reboot video game released last week with strong sales.

Given that sales of the game have been good, which means Tomb Raider is popular again, the movie will happen. It is possible it won't be in theaters for a few more years though like you said. I wouldn't be surprised if they tried for sooner though given the rebirth of the Tomb Raider and Lara Croft name.

Yeah, it's a shame that they never released the second film stateside. That's why I opted for the German edition. It's a decent edition, English-friendly (save for the subtitled part toward the end of the first film), and region-free. Price isn't too terrible either.

It's probably been six or more years since I've seen these films, so it's interesting to see how well (or how poorly) they hold up.

A shame and pretty surprising given that the sequel is widely regarded as being the better film of the two. Granted both films are considered to be crap by a good majority of the critics, but it's still odd.

I may import that someday, but contrary to how my posts sound, I'm not in a huge hurry. I did enjoy the second movie, but it's not like I'm pressed for things to watch.

While not great films by any means, I don't see these as having much trouble holding up if you enjoyed them when they came out. They're not really cheesy or anything like that.

[Diesel]

In this week's edition of Man This Movie Sucks Monday...


Double Dragon

Oh dear was this one awful. I longed for the nights of Mortal Kombat: Annihilation and Street Fighter.

There is so much cheese and badness here to laugh and make fun of.

But why should I use words to describe it...the entire thing is on Youtube.

Double Dragon (1994) - YouTube

[Foggy]

But when are you going to make it around to these two films:

The Room - Breast Cancer Line - YouTube

Birdemic-The most epic scene ever filmed - YouTube

[Al_The_Strange]

I was going to suggest watching Hard Gun with English dubbing on for Diesel. With that god-awful dubbing and all that GoldenEye music, it's a comedy classic.

But yeah, The Room and Birdemic come recommended too.

[Al_The_Strange]

Originally Posted by KilloWertz

While not great films by any means, I don't see these as having much trouble holding up if you enjoyed them when they came out. They're not really cheesy or anything like that.

The more I see them, the more I can see wrong. Still, for their time, they were pretty cool and fun, and I do still like them. Will have to review movie #2 later.

[jvince]

Head over Heels - Timothy Reckart & Fodhla Cronin O'Reilly - YouTube

Head Over Heels (2012)
dir. Timothy Reckart

The Good: Brilliant concept -- It's about an elderly couple who lives together under one roof, except the man lives on the floor and the woman on the ceiling. Fantastic claymation. Has lots of heart. Nice score. Love the ending.

The Bad: Nothing major.

The Bottom Line: Any other year, Head Over Heels would have easily won the Oscar. Too bad it had to go up against the likes of Adam and Dog and Paperman. Recommended for those who love romantic films with a touch of whimsy.

[jvince]

Originally Posted by Diesel

In this week's edition of Man This Movie Sucks Monday...


Double Dragon

Oh dear was this one awful. I longed for the nights of Mortal Kombat: Annihilation and Street Fighter.

There is so much cheese and badness here to laugh and make fun of.

But why should I use words to describe it...the entire thing is on Youtube.

Double Dragon (1994) - YouTube

Lol, I remember seeing this at the theater.

Originally Posted by Foggy

But when are you going to make it around to these two films:

The Room - Breast Cancer Line - YouTube

Birdemic-The most epic scene ever filmed - YouTube

Originally Posted by Al_The_Strange

I was going to suggest watching Hard Gun with English dubbing on for Diesel. With that god-awful dubbing and all that GoldenEye music, it's a comedy classic.

But yeah, The Room and Birdemic come recommended too.

+1000. Gotta watch The Room and Birdemic, Diesel.

[Abdrewes]

Emperor (2013)
Emperor claims to tell the true story of the investigation into the whereabouts of the Emperor and determining culpability for World War II. The problem is, its so poorly written that it turns a "thriller" into a tired melodrama. It's not about the process of investigation, but rather a series of angry and baffled faces until the reveal is placed on their laps. Characters are so one dimensional and lifeless, that I longed for the detailed (non)character work of a Roland Emmerich or James Cameron flick.

(To match the sophistication of this film, Cave Drew has arrived to finish the review) American troop, many of 'em, land in boom crash town. Mean Tommy Lee Jones tell nice man, "Go find Emperor, who order Pearly attack!?!" Nice man go to many general house and ask, "Why emperor attack the pearly?"

(Cave Drew is now addressing the flashback sequences) Nice man like Japanese girl. Japanese girl go away. Nice man find her and say "You're as beautiful as the day we first met." Japanese girl scared. Nice man hug. (Cave Drew didn't want to write much else, because even he thought the film was too one dimensional and obvious)

Okay so there's some plot holes in our description, but I don't care, the film doesn't care. It's written at such a crude level that as soon as the emperor magically arrives to speak on the record. I walked out. The film showed zero historical curiosity until that point, that hearing what the Emperor had to say would only disappoint me. The investigation up until that point consisted of putting pictures on the wall, driving to the mansions of the Emperor's right hand men and asking them why the Emperor ordered the attack on Pearl Harbor. I think he would have said: "it's not as simple as you think. Nothing is black and white." I kid you not, one of his generals told "nice man" exactly that. Oh yeah, he also gets randomly beaten up by Japanese men on two occasions, because "America bad." It paints history in such lazy broad strokes that made me long for the nuance of Baz Luhrmann's Australia or better, Birth of a Nation.

For all you Lincoln haters, I'm sure if you see this, you'll come to appreciate Tony Kushner's brilliant writing a bit more.
3/10

[Diesel]

Its up to group consensus when we watch what. Birdemic would be epic


I think the original Captain America is on the schedule for next week.

[Al_The_Strange]

Originally Posted by Diesel

I think the original Captain America is on the schedule for next week.

That's one bad movie I'd like to see some day.

[Al_The_Strange]

Before I get too lazy, here's my review for:

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and the Cradle of Life

I've always wanted to like the first Tomb Raider film, and it does have its moments, but something about it always threw me off. I blame it on the choppy editing on the action scenes, the narrative, and the indulgence in one too many weird and surreal scenes. As it is with any sequel, I expected improvements. Even though both films were poorly received by critics, I do believe that the second Tomb Raider film offers a substantial improvement.

If nothing else, TR:COL cuts to the chase and maintains a steady focus on its story. It has its share of excesses (do we really need to see Lara doing flips on a jetski?), but it doesn't d*ck around as much as the first film; it's a tighter, more evenly-paced film. Thankfully, the film also doesn't indulge in too much surrealism the way its predecessor did. This sequel is still really high on style and action, but I find it much more agreeable; the film has very smooth, fluid, solid camera moves, which captures the action really well and lets it stand on its own. The shootout scenes, especially in Hong Kong, are pretty awesome to watch. The film has some ambitious and impressive stuntwork (it is pretty cool to watch these characters sliding down a rope backwards and shooting upwards as bad guys, among other things). Fights and chases are frequent and fun. Special effects are used quite liberally, for better or for worse.

The substance suffers a little; the first film at least has the benefit of having Lara Croft's background involved, and thus has a little more to the character. This film keeps the characters one-dimensional. The best that can be said is that they try to have a develop a romance, which is meant to resonate stronger by the film's conclusion, and it is partway successful. As far as the plot goes, it's pretty standard adventure fare, but while the first film had a purely derivative artifact and mythology involved, the quest for Pandora's Box is a far more interesting venture. The film does suffer from some incredulous scenes (such as Lara punching a shark...really?!), but for a brainless popcorn flick, it's a minor issue imo.

This film is really smooth and slick, with stylish and solid photography and editing. Acting is not a huge standout, but it's not as cringe-worthy as the first film. Angelina Jolie returns and does her best to bring Lara Croft to life; even though she still only channels the single-dimension action heroine of the late 90s, she does a decent job at it. Gerard Butler puts in as much charm as he can, for better or for worse. Everybody else is passable. Writing is average. This production has some great-looking locales, and features some slick sets, props, and costumes. Special effects are fairly pretty to look at, but are often frivolous and still rather fake-looking. Music is cool; the soundtrack features a number of good songs, while Alan Silvestri's score pretty much uses the same melody as The Mummy Returns to strike up the right tone.

4/5 (Entertainment: Very Good | Story: Pretty Good | Film: Good)

Recommendation: As a rental.

This German Blu-Ray looks really slick and polished. Parts of it seemed a little soft, as if some slight DNR might have been applied, but I'm not entirely sure. Overall, the picture still looks really sharp and clean, with superb color and contrast. Sound quality is a bit soft with the dialogue, but decent with the music and sound effects.

PQ: 4/5, AQ: 4/5

Disc is region-free.

[SquidPuppet]

Originally Posted by jvince

"Bottle" by Kirsten Lepore (Official video) - YouTube

Bottle (2010)
dir. Kirsten Lepore

The Good: Ingenious concept -- A sand-man and a snow-woman communicate with each other through a bottle. Impressive stop-motion animation. Tight and well executed. Poetic and profound. And that ending...

The Bad: None.

The Bottom Line: Deceptively simple, this poignant tale of a long distance relationship might have you thinking about it for a while. Recommended.

I wonder how did they do the stop motion in the first scenes? To make the sand man scooting around, they would need to employ "time lapse" techniques. Yet the waves in the background move unaffected, in "real time".

[legendarymatt92]

Originally Posted by SquidPuppet

I wonder how did they do the stop motion in the first scenes? To make the sand man scooting around, they would need to employ "time lapse" techniques. Yet the waves in the background move unaffected, in "real time".

I also wondered about this. I assume it must have been an incredibly pain-staking task of moving the sandman and shooting each time the waves came in. Or, they superimposed the sea in the background over their time-lapsed sandman, although it looks too good for that.

Hmm...