IN THEATER MOVIE REVIEWS
Movie reviews - short and to the point from "On Screen & Beyond"!
1 slate = Don't bother 2 slates = Not bad
3 slates = Worth seeing 4 slates - Must see
DARK SHADOWS
Tim Burton, Johnny Depp and a Vampire Soap Opera – Oh my!
“Dark Shadows” is Hollywood’s latest attempt to take a popular television series and bring it to the big screen. This was a gothic soap opera that ran on TV from 1966 to 1971, with a total of 1,225 episodes. It is interesting to note that originally “Dark Shadows” did not have a vampire story line until Barnabas Collins was introduced as one in 1967. The ratings skyrocketed!
Fast-forward to 2012: What is Academy Award nominated, director Tim Burton’s (Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands) interpretation of the vampire soap opera? A comedy! Burton has stated that he was a big fan of the television series, running home each day from school to catch the new episode. Burton would have been eight at the time and I guess at that age, he found “Dark Shadows” a comedy. Burton cast his favorite; three time Oscar Nominee, Johnny Depp (Pirates of the Caribbean, Ed Wood), as the lead, Barnabas Collins, who is solid as the sexy vampire. Depp can play any role offered to him; he is one of the best actors of our generation and way over due to receive an Oscar! The ensemble cast includes the beautiful, three time Oscar nominee, Michelle Pfeiffer (Dangerous Liaisons), as Elizabeth Collins Stoddard; the striking Eva Green (Casino Royale), as Collins former girlfriend – a witch who cast a spell on him years ago; and Oscar Nominee, Jackie Earle Haley (Little Children), as the quirky caretaker Willie Loomis. I am not sure if Burton also ran home from school to watch “The Addams Family” but Dark Shadows was not a comedy. The film version in my mind is more of a representation of “The Addams Family;” even Barnabas has a little Morticia Addams in him.
It is always an experience to see a Tim Burton film, which needs be seen on the big screen, as he is the master of creative, bizarre cinematography. No one has his “eye”. The set decorations and 1970s period piece costumes receive big kudos! “Dark Shadows” is a highly entertaining film with some graphic vampire killings. Anyone who was a true fan of the television series will be disappointed. The rest of us will find it an enjoyable 113 minutes! Reviewed by Derek.
3 slates |
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOUR EXPECTING
I have to say I was hesitant about how screenwriters Shauna Cross (Whip It) and Heather Hach (Freaky Friday) were going to adapt the bestseller “What To Expect When You’re Expecting”, from Heidi Murkoff, dubbed by the New York Times as “the pregnancy bible”, into a feature film, but they did it and did it right! As with the book, the movie addresses all aspects of pregnancy, from miscarriage, adoption, mood swings, emotional breakdowns downs to cankles!
The film follows five couples through different stages of pregnancy. The ensemble cast including Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Banks (The 40 Year Old Virgin), Brooklyn Decker (Just Go With It), Matthew Morrison (Glee), Ben Falcone (Bridesmaids), Dennis Quaid, Chris Rock, and Rodrigo Santoro (300), all do an admirable job. However, I would have to say that Rebel Wilson (Bridesmaids) was the scene-stealer. Rebel had several of the funniest lines in the movie, as the eccentric sales girl in the maternity store. One of the best lines was delivered to her boss "Can I take my 15 minutes Facebook break?”
As with most pregnancies, surprises happen along the way and this screenplay touches on those moments. All pregnancies are different; some easy, some not so easy, some complicated and some tragic. High praise must be given to the screenwriters as well as the director, Kirk Jones (Waking Ted Devine), for keeping the non-comedic difficult elements in the film.
It was enjoyable to watch “What to Expect When You Are Expecting” remembering trying to find a banana cream pie at 2:30 a.m. to satisfy my wife’s craving. All I can say is; thank you Nations for being open 24 hours a day. I highly recommend this entertaining movie. Make it a girls’ night out, but this time bring along the husbands, or significant others as everyone will find some exceedingly funny moments to share, remember and rekindle. Reviewed by Derek.
3 slates |
THE AVENGERS
Is it a marvel and a Marvel?
“The Avengers” is a movie that represents the quintessential ending of a series that has spun over a four - year period. Superhero aficionados have been waiting for this movie since the release of “Iron Man” in 2008.
“The Avengers” is a film that is inspired by a resonating sound of unity amongst the Marvel Comics Superheroes against an evil with egomaniacal superpower. The film’s plot is rather simplified, but Director and Scriptwriter Joss Whedon, has successfully turned this nuisance to a very engaging, ‘funtastic’ and fantastic pivotal advantage. Quibble no more as it is truly a marvel. These extraordinary creatures have big egos and personas to the nth degree. It is unfathomable that the script and film could be developed with these extremities. This, my fellow avid moviegoers, did not befall overnight. Our quench for thirst, pangs of unbridled curiosity and our incessant need for more superhero movies have been parlayed into a filmic experiment.
Gradually, in the past four years, most of the characters in “The Avengers” have been introduced in a movie especially created for them: “Iron Man”, “Captain America” and “Thor”. Their personas have been richly nurtured and developed by Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, and Chris Hemsworth, respectively. Furthermore, showcasing the unrequited love of “Black Widow” (Scarlett Johansson) for “Hawkeye” (Jeremy Renner) adds an ingredient of reality—can love conquer all including disdain and betrayal? The movie then becomes more captivating and intriguing. It even sounds like a box office magnet to me at this point.
Well, “Is it a marvel and a Marvel?” From the financial and creative sides of the equation, it is undoubtedly both. The movie is truly whimsical, imaginative, and magical—even at the box office! Reviewed by Beau
4 slates |
THE CUP brings us a story based on true events of the Melbourne Cup in Australia. Unlike some based on true events films, The Titanic (we know it sunk, if you didn't know that, sorry!) and Secretatiat (They win the race, again apologies), THE CUP is a story many may not know unless they are a fan of horse racing or from Australia. Without giving away the story, this film pulls you in and does not let go. We feel the ups and downs of the main character. If you are looking for a film that will tug at your heartstrings, this one may be your ticket. The film stars Brendan Gleeson of Harry Potter fame (minus the makeup) and Stephen Curry of The Castle.
3 slates
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THE FIVE-YEAR ENGAGEMENT
ollowing up last year's comedy smash hit, Bridesmaids, Producer Judd Apatow brings The Five Year Engagement, starring Emily Blunt (The Devil Wears Parda) and Jason Segel (Forgetting Sarah Marshall) to the Lamorinda theaters. This movie is not as creative or original as Bridesmaids or as well written as Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Jason Segel, wrote Forgetting Sarah Marshall and co-wrote The Five Year Engagement with Director Nicholas Stoller.
In the film, Tom (Segel) and Violet (Blunt) get engaged, but circumstances postpone their wedding dates: The poor old grandparents keep dying off; Violet accepts a post doc program at the University of Michigan; Tom agrees to delay his career as a chef in a San Francisco restaurant to support Violet; and the Michigan weather freezes their relationship as Tom loses a few toes. The engagement and the film go on too long. We all know the ending, so take us there. The film has some funny scenes and some not so funny scenes. More editing might have moved the movie along so that it would only have been a Three Year Engagement, resulting in a better pacing of laughs.
2 Slates |
THE CABIN IN THE WOODS
Everyone likes a good horror flick, but this film is a bit different from any other. Almost like any other horror film, the film starts off with a group of college students preparing to go to a cabin in the woods. Throughout the movie, the group of friends are tortured by zombies while in other scenes, you see a group of business people watching and discussing the events taking place. This film shows the audience both sides of a horror film; the victims, and the perpetrators perspectives. Comparing it to other films, it would be a mix between The Hunger Games, a sci-fi film, and Saw.
Being such a strange and different take on horror films, this film is the type that you either love or hate. It’s one of those films that may take a while to sink in and form an opinion on. Reviewed by Katrina
Rate: 2
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THE LUCKY ONE
Everyone searches for love in different ways and in The Lucky One, Marine, Logan Thibault (Zac Efron, High School Musical, Charlie St. Cloud) returns from his third tour of duty in Iraq, searching for the woman (Taylor Schilling, Mercy) who he believes saved his life in an Iraqi war zone. Logan found a photo of the woman in a pile of rubble and carried it with him at all times. Who is she and is she the one for him?
The movie is formulaic - boy finds girl, girl is torn and drama ensues. Efron does a good job as the post-traumatic service man and has established himself as an actor, surpassing being a “Disney Kid”. Schilling portrays Beth, the woman in the photo who at times reminds me of Mary Stuart Masterson. The biggest problem with her performance was that she never cried and this is a “Tear Jerker” movie. When the lead female is unable to cry it quickly drops the tear radar. The strongest performance comes from the solid veteran actress, Blythe Danner (Meet the Parents) who plays the supportive, loving grandmother to Beth. Blythe Danner is Gwyneth Paltrow’s mother.
The Lucky One is based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook, Dear John) and directed by Oscar Nominee Scott Hicks (Shine). When a movie has all this talent you might expect more. The cinematography captures the southern backdrop that adds to the depth of this “Chick Flick”. If you are looking for a movie that requires limited thinking and is formula based, then The Lucky One is for you. Reviewed by Derek
2 Slates
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THE THREE STOOGES
Three Stooges' fans will enjoy the new Farrelly brothers film (Dumb and Dumber, There's Something About Mary) where modern day cinema meets classic slap stick comedy. The youngest will laugh out loud as they experience Hollywood nostalgia for the first time. The movie is broken up into episodes similar to the old television series. Seeing the three stooges' faces, the classic titling on the screen and hearing that stooges' music, instantly brings a smile to your face. In the first episode, Moe (Chris Diamantopoulous, 24), Larry (Sean Hayes, Will & Grace) and Curly (Will Sasso, MadTV) are dropped off as babies at an orphanage run by mother superior (Jane Lynch, Glee). We quickly learn that these three boys are a force to reckon with, as they begin playing practical jokes on the nuns and the other kids at the orphanage. As the episodes move forward, the stooges get older and the nuns never age.??? Soon the orphanage is facing closure if it does not raise 800,000 dollars. It is Moe, Larry and Curly to the rescue! The teens will enjoy seeing the cast from MTV's popular hit series Jersey Shore in the movie but the adults will be asking who are they? Plus why is Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm, playing a nun?
The Three Stooges is not one of the best Peter and Bobby Farrelly movies but it is worth a family day at the theatre. Don't forget to take along grandpa as he will enjoy the trip down memory lane.
2 slates
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THE HUNGER GAMES
The Hunger Games centers on the sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen-- played by Jennifer Lawrence-- who lives in the post-apocalyptic world in the country of Panem, where North America previously existed. It refers to an annual event where one boy and one girl are chosen from the surrounding area of Panem to compete in a televised battle that only one young person will survive.
The districts of Panem are relegated to live in servitude of the superior and technologically advanced metropolis, Capitol. On the day of reaping, the dictatorial empire mandates that each district provides one male and female tribute aged between 12 and 18, to participate in a fierce battle of “survival of the fittest.”
Indeed, I highly applaud the casting crew for picking Jennifer Lawrence to play the film’s protagonist. Famous for her role in “Winter’s Bone” as the Ozark’s girl, Jennifer has certainly amplified the persona of Ree to a very convincing character of stillness and strength as Katniss. Furthermore, she has effectively projected Katniss’ raw angst of self disclosure with the luminescent alacrity of unfettered impulsion as the stoic heroine of the movie.
As for the direction of the movie, I found myself distracted and needing some aspirin tablets. Director Gary Ross seemingly whips the camera from one angle position to the next without any regard to a moviegoer’s calming viewing experience. One can only assume that he, himself, probably must have been experiencing bouts of nervousness and anxiety whilst filming. To this end, how I wish he could have learned from Katniss’ emblazing gaze of steadfastness!
Overall, the film could either be a feast or famine; boon or bane for our filmic taste buds. It may not coagulate sensibly with our rationale at times; especially, when the youth must provide a form of pugnacious rituals of entertainment.
The movie, for what it is worth, is definitely emotive. The Hunger Games will indeed stoke you! Reviewed by Beau
3 1/2 slates |
American Reunion
American Reunion is the seventh sequel of the American Pie franchise (four theatrical movies and three direct to DVD films). This film overflows with crude vulgar sexual humor and nudity. This sequel bears no resemblance to Romy and Michele' s High School Reunion –it is more in the vein of The Hangover.
It was great to see the original cast reunited and the original support cast has some funny cameos. You feel like you are catching up with old high school friends as well. The movie moves very quickly delivering a fast paced laugh track in the first hour but it slows to a snail’s pace when the gang finally arrives at the reunion, with too much reminiscing. You would expect the laughs to continue and not slow down.
The ensemble cast’s performance is as good as it was in the original movie but veteran actors Jennifer Coolidge (Best in Show, A Mighty Wind) and Eugene Levy (A Mighty Wind, Best in Show) steal the show. They are masters of comedic timing and they are not in the movie long enough.
American Reunion will make you laugh out loud as you remove yourself from your daily worries. The movie runs for 113 minutes.
Two screening tips:
1) Parents keep the kids at home. American Reunion is rated R for several reasons.
2) Stay for the end credits for a few more laughs.
2.5 Slates | reviewed by Derek |
JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME
Jeff, is a 30 year old slacker who lives in his mom's (Oscar winner Susan Sarandon – Dead Man Walking) basement. Jeff, Jason Segel (Forgetting Sarah Marshall), is extremely fond of the movie Signs and believes in following them. One early morning, Jeff receives a phone call for Kevin, but there is no one named Kevin who lives in the house. Jeff believes that Kevin is a “sign” that will lead him to his destiny. Who is Kevin and where will Jeff find him? Jeff Who Lives At Home is one of the most creative, clever screenplays in years which will make you laugh out loud, think of your own life and even make you cry. The film is written and directed by the brilliant filmmaking brother team of Jay and Mark Duplass (Cyrus) and is enhanced by the superb ensemble cast of Segel, Sarandon, Ed Helms (The Hangover) and Judy Greer (Love and Other Drugs). Follow this sign and go see Jeff Who Lives At Home! Reviewed by Derek
4 Slates
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21 Jump Street
The only similarity to the popular 1980s TV show and this "R" rated Hollywood movie is the title. The TV show was a teen drama that launched the career of Johnny Depp and this film is an action-packed comedy. Yes, the movie and the TV show both have two twenty-or-so-year old cops who are assigned to go under cover at a high school, this time played by Jonah Hill ("Superbad") and Channing Tatum ("The Vow"). They learn very quickly that life is safer on the streets. To my surprise, the comedic duo of Hill and Tatum works in this genre that is equivalent to "Superbad" and "Bridesmaids." "21 Jump Street" is the funniest comedy this year, but to be honest, Hollywood has not provided much competition. "21 Jump Street" is directed by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, who previously directed "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs," and are the executive producers of the hit TV show "How I Met Your Mother." If you are a fan of vulgar, crude, unsophisticated humor then you will find "21 Jump Street" a real treat. Reviewed by Derek
2 Slates
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John Carter is a movie concept that has been floating around Hollywood since the 1930s. The film is based on Edgar Rice Burroughs eleven volume book series, Barsoom. In development for many years with various studios, the idea has shifted between animation and live action. In 2012, Disney spent a reported 250 million dollars to produce John Carter that opens nationwide this Friday.
John Carter, a former confederate captain in the Civil War is transported without explanation to Barsoom (Mars) where the action truly begins. When he arrives, Carter finds himself in the center of Barsoom's own civil war and being a natural leader, Carter takes it upon himself to enter into battle and save the inhabitants of Barsoom.
John Carter marks director Andrew Stanton’s live action adventure movie debut. He previously directed the Pixar animated favorites, Finding Nemo and Wall-E. Visually the film is breathtaking with spectacular battle scenes and delivers movie goers to a new world, which is why so many of us journey to the movie theatre. John Carter is worth the price of the ticket! Reviewed by Derek
2.5 Slates
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THE ARTIST
Oscars have been handed out but it's not too late to see the winners. The Artist walked away with four Oscars including the Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Score. The Artist is truly a movie treat. Seeing The Artist will transport you back in time. At first I thought "a silent, black and white film? Can this be any good? Will people accept it?" Of course, they did and it shows a silent film can "tell" a story just as easy and as good as a "talkie". Don't miss this one for a truely unique experience! Reviewed by Derek
3.5 slates
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Act of Valor
Combining heart-pumping action with a unique blend of realism, Act of Valor offers viewers a truly captivating experience. While the action-packed plot line more than supports itself, what sets this production apart is the use of active-duty Navy SEALs as the protagonists. Though only performing roles in a fictionalized story, the use of active members of the military and state of the art tactics and weaponry provides audiences with a movie experience unlike any other. While modern films and video games often provide examples of ample artistic license in the military genre, Act of Valor does an admirable job of maintaining the integrity of the SEALs operations and incorporating the emotions that go with them. Act of Valor provides a vibrant, edge-of-your-seat story seen through a refreshingly different lens. Great to see Hollywood being creative! So if you are looking for something new and fresh Act of Valor is for you! Reviewed by Derek
Rated R | 3 slates
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Tis the season! Now that we are all more stuffed then the delicious turkey that was in the center of your dinning table, it is time to enjoy some holiday movies. My choice for this year is "Arthur Christmas". It is fun, original, clever and a real holiday treat for the entire family.
"Arthur Christmas" takes us on a trip to the North Pole to help explain exactly how Santa Claus makes all the magic happen. Arthur, Santa's mischievous bubbling son, must complete an important mission to insure this year's Christmas goes off without a hitch and no child is forgotten.
"Arthur Christmas" has something for all ages, starting with a Justin Bieber music video of "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town." The "you-can-do-it" attitude will have you cheering on Arthur as we all did with Kevin in the holiday classic "Home Alone" and the humor is a bit "Wallace and Gromit", which is a refreshing treat for the adults. Reviewed by Derek
Arthur Christmas is pure holiday magic!
3 1/2 slate
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