Birdman

Keaton Flies into Award Season

            If you have been wandering around the streets looking for Michael Keaton, he has finally been located! He was off starring in the defining role of his career. There, now your worrying is over. What's not over though is our discussion of one of the top movies of 2014. Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu has directed and written many highly acclaimed films such as Biutiful, 21 Grams, and Babel. This where the beauty and total investment of one's self into the filmmaking process pays off. Birdman takes the conventional cut and paste style of movies and leaves the viewer enveloped in every character's effort.

            Before seeing this film, I have always been a huge advocate for the movie Black Swan. To me, it never gets old and I am constantly fascinated by the transformation of Natalie Portman's character, Nina, as well as the movie-within-a-movie theme. 

Birdman is the new Black Swan. In my humble opinion.

            There is nothing more refreshing to a movie lover than to see an actor (especially a seasoned one) lose his or herself in a role. Michael Keaton (the best Batman) has not given us that gift. The closest he has ever come was as the sarcastic zombie Beetlejuice back in the 80s. He has now trumped that performance simply by playing himself. 

Riggan (Keaton) used to be the man behind the mask that everyone looked up to. When he starred as the "Birdman" back in the 80s and 90s he was the center of all the red carpet flashes. Now, he is directing a Broadway play adaptation starring himself and just doesn't like knowing that the Birdman has become old news. While attempting make a triumphant comeback on the stage he, along with his Bird persona residing in his mind, now have more perseverance than any newcomer in showbiz.

             Apart from the brilliant acting and an unbelievably mastered script, the best part about this film is the structure. Inarritu set out to make Birdman flow from scene to scene rather than just having cuts and pauses like every other movie. There is no brief blackouts or time jumps in the set, it's all one smooth walk from location to location. I hope they bought enough rags to shine their cinematography Oscar with. 

Keaton channels his inner "Walter White" while
making a run for it down Broadway

            Sure, the continuous shot method is very cool but the reason it stands out is based off the perfection from those onscreen. Keaton is the man that will reap the awards but Edward Norton, Emma Stone, and a dramatically genius Zach Galifianakis can count on their share of nominations, as well!  Each performance is the epitome of visceral. Mind, body, and soul went into preparation and I cannot stress how nice it is to be able to see hard work as an art form. Do not be afraid to get sucked into the mind games Birdman plays. The dark comedy mixed with the leaving-some-doors-open drama is a display that can only be found in the highest tier of film. Watch it once and then hit rewind because this is something that is so much fun to fill in the blanks with. GRADE: 9/10

            

The Interview

Controversy wrapped in Comedy

           The antics are idiotic, the plot is not at all fool-proof, and target is the most evil person of the 21st century. The Interview has scraped up as much news coverage as humanly possible and given a new reinforcement of what the Freedom of Speech truly means. There is no holding back whatsoever. If you're going to make a movie about the assassination of an enemy that is still living, it's go big or go home.

            Seth Rogen and James Franco have become the center of this worldwide phenomenon after being condemned by the real Kim Jong Un himself. Why stop there? This movie has even gotten President Obama threatened, the crowd over at Sony hacked, and even all of North Korea's internet completely shut down. If there's more power that's come from another source of entertainment, point me to the direction and buy me a ticket, please. This is, without a doubt, the gutsiest move in showbiz since Mr. Charlie Chaplin's The Great Dictator made a mockery of Adolf Hitler's--THE most sinister being since satan himself--and his Third Reich during World War II.

            If you saw This Is The End back in 2013, you got a slight taste of the ridiculousness that comes from the minds of Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg. After spearheading that hilarious train wreck, they have decided to take on a popular punchline in current events: the supreme leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un. Everything goes and there can be no holding back. They took on this project surely with the knowledge of what controversy they could drum up but I am sure the waves this has created are crashing down harder than expected.

Okay, now to talk about how insanely funny it is!

             James Franco likes to draw a crowd in any way he possibly can. He's revolutionized the selfie and how to get the paparazzi talking just about how crazy his Instagram photos are. It is no secret that he carries himself with confidence and would love to play someone like Dave Skylark. Arrogant as the day his long and a fashion sense close to Kim Jong Un's barber, Skylark is the host of "Skylark Tonight," a celeb gossip-driven talk show that finds whatever secret the spotlight may be hiding.

            Now, behind the scenes is Aaron Rapoport (Rogen)--"Skylark Tonight's" senior producer. When he finds out the supreme leader is obsessed with Dave Skylark, he sees the ratings fly higher and higher and a few phone calls to Asia must be made. After they are granted an interview under extremely strict protocol, the CIA shows up at their door with one request: kill the Kim. Lizzy Caplan (Mean Girls) may be too hot to be in the CIA but she catches the eye of Skylark with her sarcastic charm and fake glasses. Her masterful plot to plant a fatal dose of ricin in Un is a little too much for Aaron and Dave to handle and they do so hilariously.

            The chemistry between these two Freaks is hard to come by in Hollywood. Their sense of humor and ability to fully compliment each other is what makes this watchable-- well, that and the ending. There is an immense of amount of crude, lewd, and Kim Jong -ude in this script  but some of the jokes create laughter that does not stop. Go ahead and let yourself get honeypotted into this one but just know that it takes every stereotype and North Korean gag to level 100 while giving a hefty nod to Katy Perry. Even a friendly game of basketball (wink wink). There's no way a completely quality movie can be made with such a far reaching and offensive plot but that definitely does not mean you can't sit back and have a good laugh! I don't know how to rate this movie (I'm sorry to admit) so I looked up Kim Jong Un's height and went with that. GRADE (in inches): 5.9/10

Dumb and Dumber To

Carrey and Daniels' 20 Years 'To' Late

            20 years ago it was 1994. Pulp Fiction came out. Forrest Gump came out. Shawshank Redemption was still new. And Dumb and Dumber hit theaters. All great movies. Hands down. Three of the four were nominated for Oscars and even won a good amount of them. The fourth just sat and watched from home on Oscar night but still managed to become a classic of the 1990s.

            When someone chooses to name a movie "Dumb and Dumber" it's hard to expect much out of it. Some movies have a nice way of surprising audiences despite the title. Bobby and Peter Farrelly are two brothers that have made a great reputation in surprising audiences with their zany and quirky characters. Their filmography consists of a few classics and guilty pleasures (There's Something About Mary, Shallow Hal, Me, Myself, & Irene, Osmosis Jones...), some better than others, but still, entertaining until the credits roll.

            For some reason, they decided to knock "entertaining" off the list when making their latest film and seemed to focus solely on the box office numbers.

            Now, for the million dollar question....... Why mess with what was already perfect?

            When Dumb and Dumber To started its promotion spots a few months ago it was decided, for some reason, to put the entire focus of the movie's beginning in the trailer. Harry (Jeff Daniels) approaches a heavily dazed and bearded Lloyd (Jim Carrey) while he resides at a mental hospital. Turns out, for twenty years, Lloyd had been faking his illness and going through countless medical procedures and tests all to play a joke on his best buddy. Not the most ideal prank or really funny at all for that matter but sticks with the norms that the first movie displayed two decades ago. While the Farrelly brothers had a good time throwing in references and plot points from the first movie that everyone would love, they must have thought it was a fitting substitute for well thought out jokes. The end result is two film production icons out-doing themselves in all the wrong ways.

            Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels have been all over the spotlight again ever since September 2013 when @Jeff_Daniels tweeted a picture of them as Harry and Lloyd with the caption "We're Back!!! #DumbTo." That picture created monstrous waves among movie lovers and was the newest highly anticipated film for the next 12 months.

            You'll see this movie for two reasons: 1.) To answer the question, "The first was so good, will this sequel curse it?" And 2.) To see how to perfect Lloyd's bowl-cut. I'm choosing to focus on the first one. Jeff Daniels actually nails his performance. He seems to have held onto the persona of Harry Dunn (whatever that means) and aged no more than he should have. He's a father now and in search of his [gorgeous] ditzy 22 year old daughter, Penny (Rachel Melvin). He was never known as being completely animated as his costar but sure can hold his own onscreen. That's regrettably one of the only positives I can throw out there. Rob Riggle and Kathleen Turner head up the supporting cast but don't seem to fit in at all with awkward roles like this. Turner is a the mother of Harry's daughter and also part owner of a funeral home. Riggle plays a mooch after a family's fortune with a confusing identical twin in special ops. He has no character continuity at all as the film goes on and appears as a last-minute edit by the Farrelly duo.

Rachel Melvin and Jim Carrey 

            What else? Oh yeah, Jim Carrey. Jim Carrey is not a person. He's a cartoon, a whirling dervish of talent and insanity. He's an icon and a comedy legend that has revolutionized slapstick for generations to come. Another thing he is doing is showing his age. It's hard to say but being over-the-hill shows with films like this one. Carrey reprises his haircut and chipped tooth as Lloyd Christmas. While being known for his extravagant improvisations, it is difficult to believe he made up some of the poorly timed jokes and gags that go along with being in a movie this silly. He comes off as the jokester at a party that won't stop telling the same joke even though no one laughed at it the first time.

             Of course there will be no moral to this story, that's only common sense. The first movie was fun to watch because of how different it was and set high standards for future slapshows. The jokes are as childish as the characters (actually, not so much this time around. Adult humor is where it's at, apparently) as expected but just because there is "Dumb" in the title does not give the writers permission to make the movie as stupid or crude as humanly possible. There is quality to be had but that was thrown to the wayside over the course of two decades. Thank you, Harry and Lloyd, but next time, stick to what works. GRADE: 4.8/10 (A bit generous but I rated it based off the actual number of genuine laughs it provided).
           
         

Big Hero 6

Nerds Still Rule

            As expected, Walt Disney Studios continues its unbreakable streak of delivering the definition of quality entertainment! There really is a little bit of everything in Big Hero 6 but what sets this film apart from recent Disney works are the perfectly timed and gut-busting laughs. This is your chance to not be afraid to sport tears of laughter in a movie theater. This writer speaks from experience.

            I don't want to spend much time categorizing Big Hero 6 since it is based off of an original Japanese anime production but a good way to briefly explain it is to call it the "How to Train Your Dragon of the future." The way future, that is. How far ahead? I figured you'd ask. There is no specific date given but the city this takes place in is the fusion of Japanese culture as well as West Coast American life and is appropriately named "San Fransokyo." Yep, that far. 

            What this movie actually revolves around is science. Almost a celebration of it, one could say. It all begins with 14 year old Hiro (Ryan Potter, showing much potential from his Nickelodeon days). A child prodigy in robotics who has created a living by hustling at underground robot battles. Hiro lives with his older brother, Tadashi, in the upstairs of their aunt's cafe. Tadashi is a science wiz as well, studying advanced robotic work at a prestigious local college under a world renown inventor (James Cromwell). Along with his fellow nerds in "nerd school," Tadashi shows young Hiro around to get his interests hyped and away from bot fighting. These students all have their own individually insane projects that would give the minds at Apple a run for their money. What steals the show is Tadashi's project: Baymax, a personal robot with extensive medical knowledge compiled with a caring touch and friendly appearance. 

            Baymax is the giant marshmellow-like thing you've been seeing in the commercials. His comedic monotoned voice (Scott Adsit, 30 Rock) and his programmed unconditional love for everyone around him is what makes this movie so much fun. Note: the laughs are especially brought on when Baymax has trouble with his battery. 

            The voice-over efforts of TJ Miller (She's Out of My League), Maya Rudolph, Daniel Henney, Damon Wayans Jr., Genesis Rodriguez, and Alan Tudyk (Dodgeball) all mesh nicely while some mysteries of technology are being explored in a world that already has so many answers. There's so much action in there as well which alternates with the slapstick quite harmoniously. The emphasis on each emotion is not overwhelming at all but just enough to stay in tune and empathetic with each character's situation.

            Besides revolutionizing the way kids will be fist-bumping from now on (you'll understand after seeing it), this movie sends a great message for every age. Bring the family, you all will love it. The genius creativity that Disney put into the technology featured onscreen is one reason alone to see it. This is top notch work in family movies. Who knows, maybe one day a "laser slicer" will be found in every kitchen. GRADE: 8/10

            

            

            

Nightcrawler

The Obsession is Real

            The opening shots of Nightcrawler provide some really cool views of Los Angeles at the day's close. The stillness in one of America's busiest cities is anything but still. There isn't excitement like what occurs after the sun goes down, even in L.A.

            Journalism is an industry not for the weak. The facts are out there and some are easier to report than others. The media is an entity constantly under public fire for broadcasting what seems to be the "wrong" stories or for not being completely bias on certain issues. In any condition, each station has to be different from its competition even if that means tip-toeing past the lines of ethics and morality. I know, this sounds kind of far-fetched, who knows how often instances like this actually take place in real life. For Louis Bloom, morality is something he is willing to sacrifice to save whatever is left in his one-bedroom apartment.

            Louis is a thief by day as well as loner by day. By night, he makes his own choices. One night in particular, he chooses to learn the craft of being a nightcrawler. (One who freelances video clips for news stations to purchase). He has no job and not much to lose so, if the money is that good, why not? Camcorder, police scanner, and new partner in hand, Louis takes a whack at the nightcrawling industry and even has one news director eating out of the palm of his hand. Going from complete rookie, to amateur, to sadistic pro, it isn't until he comes across a story before the cops show up where the real code of ethics is at stake.

            When you are as good at what you do as Jake Gyllenhaal is, it is not difficult to have an audience immediately take you seriously--even if you've shed a few pounds and are creepy from the get go. He easily draws a crowd, just ask any girl nearby. It's really nice to see a character of his take the turn for the worse in the best way possible.

            The first word that comes to mind after watching Gyllenhaal take on Louis Bloom is "natural." His character is conniving in nature, charming to the blind eye, and as articulate as the night is long but he pulls it off with an extremely natural flow and 60's style shades all with his greasy hair tied back once it's time for work. He was near flawless as Robert Graysmith, the obsessive cartoonist in Fincher's Zodiac, and now he's folded up the newspaper and found a fitting place behind the camera while borrowing some of Ryan Gosling's Drive intensity. This role is a true transformation for him.

            Gyllenhaal's not the only antihero in Dan Gilroy's film. His personal assistant in crime is played by Riz Ahmed (The Reluctant Fundamentalist) who is homeless and pretty much agrees to signing a blank check with Bloom. The news director that falls for Bloom's newly found talent is Rene Russo (Outbreak). Louis is a fast learner (he lets her know this a lot) and figures out just how to get what he wants, even if it's not what she had in mind. Even a cut throat Bill Paxton is along for the ride and stands in the way as Bloom's biggest nightcrawling competitor with 14 years already under his belt.

             Dan Gilroy has a few writing credits to his name (The Bourne Legacy, Real Steel) but this is a pretty impressive debut into directing. Regardless of your opinions of the media, Nightcrawler may leave you angry and cringing at how the news is dealt with, but, if my word matters, it's a truly suspenseful movie that delivers a pretty good time, if that's what you're up for. GRADE: 8.3/10

Fury

"Best Job I Ever Had"

            War is hell. That statement has been done to death throughout film history but it is a fact that needs not reiterated. World War II was hell, no secret there. We've seen in it in many heart-wrenching movies that take us into the lives of soldiers whether they be based off real events or a fictional ode to history. Fury stands alone in this category of historical fiction based off the U.S. 2nd Armored Division. You loved Saving Private Ryan. We all did. It's a phenomenal story that took audiences into a pivotal moment in wartime history and introduced us to the real horror that lies overseas. Now here it is, the best war film since Spielberg's. Fury is brotherhood from start to finish and latches on to what is the most difficult to swallow.

            This film is nothing more than blast after blast of action. There is nothing funny about it. Actually it is more touching than anything. Believe me, these guys have seen the worst of the worst. That's easy to say. What's hard to say though is how they continued to wake up every morning. Writer/Director David Ayer (Training Day, End of Watch) sets focus on the horizon ahead and does not stop until he's ready to fire. His cast of soldiers dwarfs that of Lone Survivor and can be put in the books as Shia LaBeouf's shining moment. But more of that later.

             Brad Pitt is back in Germany. Killin' Nazis  (instead of the "nA-tseez" in Inglourious Basterds). There is no shame in absolutely embodying the part of a seasoned soldier that loves nothing more than his country. We've seen him master it before and he sure is at it again.
             With the nickname "Wardaddy," Don Collier has been the commander of the American tank "Fury" for quite awhile now and knows his crew inside and out and vice versa.

"...and now I've got you."

            Collier runs into a bit of frustration with his new assistant driver and turret operator, Pvt. Norman Ellison (a heartfelt Logan Lerman, Perks of Being a Wallflower). As with every new guy thrown to the wolves, hazing is a must and maturity is to be had. Lerman is the face of innocence and great ignorance. He shows how he can handle an intense setting and proves a new versatility with this role.

            Tanks are huge and can do big damage but there doesn't seem to be much to them. Of course, that all depends on the crew running it. Collier's men are vulgar, gritty, and hard. They mesh with Fury like it has raised them to do so. Alongside Wardaddy and Norman are as follows: Boyd "Bible" Swan, Trini "Gordo" Garcia, and Grady "Coon-Ass" Travis.

L to R: LaBeouf, Lerman, Pitt, Pena, Bernthal. Home Sweet Home.

            Shia LaBeouf has completely transformed since his days on the Disney Channel and now he heads up the best supporting cast since last year's heavily nominated American Hustle. He mans Fury's main cannon as "Bible" Swan (you can probably guess how he got his nickname). This performance pulls the trigger with passion that bleeds through every pore with full speed emotion and control from every single angle.

            Michael Pena (End of Watch, Shooter) takes the wheel as "Gordo" Garcia, Fury's fearless driver. He provides subtle comic relief and a south of the border flare that is uncommon with films of this nature. Then there's Jon Bernthal (The Wolf of Wall Street, The Walking Dead) as "Coon-Ass" Travis who heads up the ammunition and assists "Bible" with the cannon. His loud mouth may drive you insane but don't let that fool you.

            The jaw-dropping adrenaline rush that comes with seeing Fury will seek and destroy those who are willing to witness. The writing, direction, and cinematography, is everything you need to complete the deal. Fury has provided this generation with a new classic and this year's Oscar contenders something to look up to. Sorry supporting actors, LaBeouf might already have this one in the bag. GRADE: 9.2/10

Gone Girl

Always Another Turn

"I thought writers hated cliches."

            This is just one of the many stand-out lines in Gillian Flynn's unreal script based off her own bestselling novel that can't stop raking in the compliments. Teamed up with the foremost thriller mastermind of his generation, David Fincher (Se7en, Fight Club, Zodiac), the two have combined their visions to tell this story of loss, betrayal, and psychosis in the most cliche ways possible. Gone Girl is paranoid from open to close while twisting and turning just when it could not have gone deep enough.

           First things first, the best part about this movie is every bit of evidence showing that is hand-dipped by Fincher. Even having seen this film with a season reader of Flynn's novel, the style stayed true to the book's theme. The brief fades in the opening credits and the abrupt and silent scene changes are all trademarks that will lead you to the edge of your seat without knowing it. The eerie and foggy score that climaxes and drops your jaw envelopes every sense of actually being in the room or next to them on the street corner. There is nonstop mystery and hairpin plot turns that take the audience further and further into this psychological workout.

            Did you know Ben Affleck is in it? Yeah, he sure is. He is Nick Dunne. He owns a bar with his sis Margo (emotional Carrie Coon) and is a former writer who comes home one day to find what seems to be a crime scene.

            Nick met Amy at a party some time ago and then ended up getting married. "Amazing" Amy Dunne (Rosamund Pike- Jack Reacher, The World's End) has a trust fund that could rent out Time Square along with the calming voice that trembles with anticipation. She has gone missing now and her kidnapper has left Nick with a mountain of clues. Not the best of clues, though, because it appears he's being framed. Anyway, the whole community and nation is up in arms with the dramatics of the newest missing bombshell. Most importantly, the media can't seem to get enough fun out of making our friend Nick look bad.

            The ever-present Tyler Perry is not very funny in this movie (thank the Lord!) as he watches Nick's every move. Ya know, because that's what good lawyers do best. While he lays down the law, Nick is scrambling for any info he can get his hands on. While his in-laws are little to know help, he resorts to Amy's rocky past with Desi. THE Neil Patrick Harris fully embodies what it means to an ex-boyfriend. Take that however you want but just sit back and watch.

            This thriller is suspense without the stun. The scare is effective and real but shakes you up in a different way. The media plays a suffocating role in the search for Amy and the cliches that are avoided are actually capitalized on. Sometimes that actually works in writing. While this seemed to become slightly drawn out during its 149 minute running time, it surely plays its own role in the frustration that comes with a strained marriage. What does it mean to truly be a fake? Ask David Fincher and he'll give you the real thing. GRADE: 7.9/10

Annabelle

A New Member of the Family

           Established fright guru, James Wan (head of both Insidious flicks, Saw, as well as The Conjuring) must have gotten uncomfortable sitting in the director's chair and let John Leonetti (The Mask, Insidious cinematographer) have the top spot for the nightmare prequel that horror fans have been longing for. Right off the bat, this was bad move by Mr. Wan. The Conjuring and Insidious both fully embody the definition of a well-rounded horror film and now there's Annabelle. This film has its scares as promised but lacks the much needed balance of a storyline that its superior predecessor provided.

           The Conjuring took the sound of two claps and kept us all up at night even from the previews. When the movie finally hit theaters, the audience was introduced to the story of Annabelle in the first scene. Two college coeds are cowering from the red scribbles on their walls done by the hand of a sinister doll. The film then leads into the lives of the demonologists that dealt with Annabelle and the new challenge that's been conjured up.

           The brief tease of Annabelle's reign of terror in The Conjuring was alluring and chilling but even I was wide-eyed and elated to see a movie being made just about this doll. Nothing beats a prequel, right. Just ask George Lucas. There's something about the story-before-the-story that draws a crowd and what better than make it another face-covering screamfest? Annabelle showed high hopes from how well done her original cameo was but Leonetti let me down with his flat dialogue between a young married couple and the brief ounces of fear that come and go.

            There's pregnant Mia (Annabelle Wallis. Yep, her real name) and intern physician John (Ward Horton, Wolf of Wall Street). They, along with their neighbors the Higgins', attend church and lend a hand when the other needs it. After the Higgins' are the victims of an unspeakably scary crime, Mia and John begin having doubts about the spiritual integrity of their home and the random findings around a doll John surprised Mia with.

             You know what the doll looks like. If you don't, you'll soon realize it's eyes alone will haunt you and make you question why anyone would ever purchase it. Is there such thing as something being too scary? Almost so much that it loses credibility?

             Since I didn't say anything earlier, Annabelle is based off true events revolved around a real-life doll. Now that that's off my chest, I wish the movie gave me the chills as the story behind it did. The Annabelle doll is still around to this day in the Warrens' home, safely waiting in a glass case.

Demonologists Ed and Lorraine
Warren pictured with the actual Annabelle doll.

             The darkness of this movie was not fully dimmed, though. There are instances that are definitely capitalized on and reflect that James Wan was indeed a producer. [Note: watch for a sprinting toddler.] Other parts are as cliche as they are jumpy. Sudden bass drum hits maximize a moment's terror but the fun is left on the stove too long with drawn out suspense. Mr. Leonetti, you can only zoom-in to Annabelle's crooked face so many times.

            The acting is from talents that have yet to be flourished but shows some promise. If it wasn't for the empty delivery of reading their lines directly from the script there could have been some genuine horror to be had. Getting a priest (Tony Amendola, Zorro saga) involved is a great scare tactic that hits home to the audience but seems forced and fake even for this porcelain exorcism. The eerie follow-up that was expected from Annabelle's story does not go down well for those in the market for an occult classic. GRADE: 5.9/10
           
         

Locke

Taking Every Step

            A series of unfortunate events are all handled behind the wheel. Moment by moment. Locke is everything one could ask for when it comes to an unbelievable script with an unbelievably realistic plot. The similarity of this British "take" on James Franco's performance in the cringeworthy 127 Hours is set apart with an unending conversation that grounds the audience. Tom Hardy single-handedly anchors this one-scened mini thriller with an impossible amount of patience.

There's nothing to it. Sometimes a car is all you need to just go away.

            It's no secret that Tom Hardy is the new face of being the tough guy every viewer can trust. I mean c'mon, just look at his last name. He's punched brass knuckles through enemies' faces, bent minds with Leonardo DiCaprio, cracked skulls with James Gandolfini, and dismantled the Dark Knight. Now he's sitting in a car. Battling himself and his choices. Talking on the phone. This could be his finest hour.

            Director Steven Knight has orchestrated a controlled cacophony and placed Hardy in the driver's seat. Ivan Locke loves his family and his job. He's a respected construction manager as well as a perfectionist. It's obvious that this guy's passion in life is keeping everything in line and so far he's been quite successful. It's the night before the biggest concrete pour in the most important project of his career and he's gotten himself into a predicament that's hard to forgive but he persists in putting others before himself even if it costs him everything. While on the highway he has some serious conversations that are accompanied with twilight window glares and flashy camera shots that suck in the viewer and keep you scratching your head and leaning into what the next phone call could be.

            The dialogue between Locke and those on the other end of the line is casual and poetic. There is nothing difficult about the details and no complications that take away from what transpires. Quite low budget and independent, Tom Hardy displays a smooth and matured version of his core Brit accent but, as he takes on a new light shows that his greatness abides by no traffic laws. Locke is every synonym of level-headed and focused with every intention of simplicity. GRADE: 8.9/10

         

The Drop

Gandolfini Passes The Torch To Hardy

            Dennis Lehane wrote the book that inspired Mr. Martin Scorsese to direct Shutter Island. It is a great movie. Messes with your mind. You already know because you saw it. Well, Lehane is at it again only switching up genres from psychological thriller to crime drama. He wrote the novelization and screenplay for The Drop. There are moments that shine throughout the 106 minute duration and then there are times where you may question what's going on exactly. Nevertheless, we cannot forget this is James Gandolfini's final film and it looks like Tom Hardy may have found another area of the screen where he excels.

           Okay, what's a "drop?" Fantastic question, I'm glad you asked. In New York's bar scene, crime rules over all including the person who pours your shots. Bars act as money launderers as well as storage for other cash the mafia needs. Your name may be written in neons over the front door but always keep in mind that you are not the one running the show in this town. As the night goes on, middlemen stop by, may they order a drink, but be certain that they also make a different deposit. Actually, they drop it off for the bartender to hold until the boss comes around to pick it up. Smooth business, right. Let's just hope no one catches on to what your hiding under the whiskey bottles.

            This is Bob Saginowski (Tom Hardy, Warrior, Lawless). A bit of a lonely and timid guy, Bob likes going to church and working with his older cousin, Marv. They run a bar together and are a frequent stop to nightly "drops" from those who seeks deeds from the "real owners" of the bar. Bob comes across an abused pitbull puppy in a trashcan and his life changes. Nadia (a graceful Noomi Rapace) has her own dramatic and colorful history but is now a new friend to Bob and little Rocco. 

            Here's Marv. That's cousin Marv to you (Gandolfini. Tony Soprano. Respect). Owner of Cousin Marv's bar and (actual) first cousin to Bob. Marv's a hard-nosed person with a lot on his mind. He lives with his sister and together they worry about their dying father's medical bills. He's been in the business long enough to see rough times but he knows how to deliver a good time in a glass to those who seek (or demand) it. Don't expect too many drinks on the house from Marv, though.

            When a robbery occurs at Cousin Marv's, eyebrows are raised and questions asked, especially from a nosey cop played by an annoyingly good John Ortiz (Silver Linings Playbook). An Eastern-European  crime boss gets his feathers ruffled from some money lost while Marv and Bob were on the clock but that's not the end of it; other people, and animals, could be endangered as well if the next drop  runs into some speed bumps. 

            James Gandolfini died suddenly back in 2013. Tough guy extraordinaire. It's as clear as a light beer the talent that was lost. He steals the show with his strict and rigid ways of managing a bar and his fortifying respect for family. Subtle but brutal. When the movie was over I had to painfully remind myself that he was gone even though he seemed so alive onscreen. Thank you, James. We can do nothing but learn from what you've left.

           The first half of this film is superbly set up. There's a noir-eeriness that trouble could be around the corner but Tom Hardy makes you feel at home with his gentle care and innocent nature help watch out for those around him. Even though there are pent up moments reulting to be dull or anti-climactic, Hardy doesn't have to flex his muscles or throw punches to be great in this film. He very soft-spoken but even Cousin Marv advises "don't fuck with him." His performance as Bob is refreshing in a sense and he needs to truly harness these characteristics next time because there's perfection that lies ahead.

Hardy, Rapace enjoy coffee as Rocco hides in plain sight.

            There are not many movies that I can say I wished were longer. This was a comfortable, less-than-2 hours but it seemed to get a little fast for the senses as it drew to a close. another 15 minutes may have wrapped it up a little easier but it is still highly entertaining and a different look behind the bar. GRADE: 8.1/10

Guardians of the Galaxy

Sci-Fi Done Right

            Usually when a there's an alien abduction some heads will turn while others will shake in disbelief. Some of the most mind-bending moments in history revolve around the possible existence of intergalactic life. This time around, not only are heads turning to the lights in the sky, but people are flocking to join in on the fun of the summer's coolest movie!

Guardians of the Galaxy is the funniest sci-fi film since Mel Brooks' Spaceballs.

            Following his mother's death prolonged by illness, Peter Quill finds those lights in the sky staring back and sucking him up only to fast forward time 26 years. Quill (Chris Pratt finally stamping his talent in concrete) is a self-proclaimed badass and is now in a predicament concerning an infinitely powerful orb, some bad guys, some very bad guys, and some so-so guys that are after it.

             Chris Pratt really pulls off the oxymoron of being smooth but shaky during tense situations. His awkwardness accompanied with being handsome provides a balance of humor and cleverness all in one package. Helping him out along this ride is Gamora, the wicked-witch shade of green alien that gives a sharp and quick comeback to what Peter has to say and tries keeping the rest of the Guardians in line. Zoe Saldana (Avatar) is used to being decked out in colorful make-up by now and meshes well a sexy extraterrestrial.

Pratt and Saldana have their fun as the focal points of these usual suspects but the real showstoppers are found in rare form.

             Rocket: a hilariously-sarcastic raccoon voiced by Bradley Cooper and can be added on his list of top roles to date.

             Dave Bautista hangs up his SmackDown wrestling tights and takes on Drax the Destroyer
. He is covered in fiery tribal marks and undoubtedly delivers some of the funniest one-liners of the film with his literal take on life and heart as big as his biceps.

            Then there's Groot. Just by hearing the name you can already picture what he may look like. Groot is a tree. He says only the same three words and is the epitome of a gentle giant. This is exactly what Vin Diesel would probably look like if he was not human and provides the voice for the best cast role of the film. Both Cooper and himself team up and prove the leaps and bounds voices can make even paired alongside human characters.

            By now you should have figured out that there are literally no dull moments to be found.

 It's no longer a secret that the soundtrack of this movie is the number one album in the country due to the irresistibly toe-tapping classic hits. It adds nothing more than a perfect flow from scene to scene and makes the film in its entirety that much easier to watch. Great music means great movie, right? one usually follows the other and it is without a doubt that the soundtrack to Guardians of the Galaxy will go down in film history along with other classics such as Forrest Gump.

            The make-up department can see the nominations coming its way as it is all made impeccably real and gives life to what lies in space. I can't be too lame and say the the special effects are "out of this world, man!" but they are UNIVERSE-ally entrancing (told ya, keeping it cool) and vibrant from beginning to end.

             Even though this is based off Marvel Comics' story, the plot references and characters are surprisingly easy to follow but this can all be traced back to the success of director James Gunn (Dawn of the Dead writer) and his team of writers and casting directors. The cameos of Glenn Close, Benicio Del Toro, and John C. Reilly are just enough to give the audience it's fill of veterans and still have fun with the story. Word of Advice: There's no shame in dancing in the theater aisles, just saying. GRADE: 8.4/10

           

              

Boyhood

New Age of Filmmaking Has Begun

            What were you doing 12 years ago? I was 11 years old and getting ready to start 5th grade. Now, I have a high school diploma and a bachelors degree. 12 years is not a long time at all compared to the average human life, but, so much can happen and it seems to go by in the blink of an eye. In the summer of 2002, director Richard Linklater began an experiment that was so risky it could have wasted over a decade of his life as well as all those involved. Boyhood is the result of how a big risk can take you further than you can ever imagine. It is now easy to say that the maturing process of what it means to be an American cinematic classic has reached a new height. Boyhood completely opens the door to a new age of filmmaking and redefines what it means to be a "work of art."

This is that "next best thing" that everyone has been waiting for.

            Back in 2002, Patricia Arquette was beginning filming as Kissin' Kate Barlow in the adaptation of the book Holes. In the same year, Ethan Hawke was just getting through with all of his attention from the critically-acclaimed action-drama Training Day alongside Denzel Washington. Little did we know, both Arquette and Hawke had teamed up with Linklater to portray the separated and struggling parents of Mason and Samantha Evans.

            Ellar Coltrane plays Mason Evans Jr. His older sister, Samantha, is played by Lorelei Linklater (daughter of director, Richard). Boyhood begins with Mason at age 5 living with his sister and mother in the middle of a transitioning period of moving. Arquette needs to further her education in order to support her children so the three of them pack up and move to Houston. Dad shows up from time to time to spoil the kids and take them on little trips despite the reluctancy of Mom's new love interests.

           Given its indie film status, it appears as a documentary but it is very important to keep in mind that these are all actors playing the same role for over a decade in real time. It can't be understated how groundbreaking and moving that is. Boyhood is the boldest move by a filmmaker in the past 50 years.
         
            There are parts that are light-hearted and funny. There are times in the maturing process that are difficult to watch and even appalling. And then there are moments that push the awkward limits when you just can't wait to see what comes next for this family. As Mason Jr. tries to figure out life little by little, Mom, Dad, and Samantha have their own growing up to do in the mean time.

            This is literally a trip through a 12-year time capsule. The fashion, the music, the video games, the movies, the athletes. Everything. The world around is constantly changing and these characters are just adapting through and through.

L to R: director Richard Linklater, Patricia Arquette, Ellar Coltrane, Lorelei Linklater, and Ethan Hawke attend a screening of Boyhood in July 2014. 

            The complete transformation physically and emotionally of these characters is so entrancing because it's so believable. There are a lot of cliche and cheesy moments that are just there to let the audience know that it's all a part of life; nothing is left out. Richard Linklater has cemented his place in the pages of film history with this one and has proven to the world just what dedication of the highest form means. Boyhood pulls off coming full-circle and still leaving some of the blanks to be filled in by the viewer. This film perfectly nails the movie-going experience and doesn't hit the brakes once. GRADE: 9.8/10

The Man, The Myth, The Everything.

            After hearing such shocking news, I went on Twitter and the first thing I saw was that John Stamos and myself had the exact same reaction. Word quickly got out and social media, along with the rest of world, exploded with grief as we all were stunned by the loss of one of the greatest comedic actors to ever live. Robin Williams is dead. I still can't believe those words as I type them.

         

Writing reviews and posts on here has become one of my favorite things to do and I really try my best to be as analytical as I can, giving a straight and unbiased opinion about what I saw on the screen. There are some exceptions, though. This time, I can't help but make it personal. No one can replace him. No one can imitate him. Robin was the best.

             When I was in 8th grade, I gave a biographical speech for English class about the late actor Christopher Reeve (best known as Superman). While researching and writing it I came across the fact that while he was studying at Julliard in New York City, his roommate was none other than Robin Williams. I remember being amazed that two big names had known each other from the beginning and it really brought out the "human" in these figures we see as only "celebrities." Then I thought, "Wow, what could it have possibly been like to live with Robin Williams?"


            Myself and everyone else right around my age first thinks 2 roles after hearing his name: "Genie" and "Mrs. Doubtfire." These are from amazing and classic movies that are only good because Robin added his own charm to light up everyone around him. But it's true, you cannot just say one character or movie when people bring up the name of Robin Williams. More will always follow because he showed the world that the art of acting comes at you from every angle.

            "Did you hear the news?!"
            "I know! Man, Mrs. Doubtfire! Good Will Hunting! Jumanji!
Dead Poets Society!"
            "Oh, have you seen One Hour Photo with him??"
            "I did a long time ago, though! Weird movie! You ever watch the Mork and Mindy reruns?"
            "Nanu Nanu!... Wow...So sad."
            "Yeah, so sad."

Sound kind of like a conversation you've had in the past week?

            When it was confirmed that he had indeed committed suicide after decades of struggling with deep depression and drug addiction, an incredible outburst of ways to control every kind of depression have been flying all over the place and his death has sparked a wave of self-help campaigns throughout the world. It's eye-opening for all the wrong reasons. It's quite a shame that something of this magnitude had to happen in order for everyone to clearly see the results. Robin Williams had hit the bottom and still kept a smile on.

            Some amazing and hilarious quotes from Robin have been floating around in the past few days and this is raw footage of how much he meant to the world. His flawless improvisation tactics and voice characterizations have revolutionized the way we see comedy and even relieved some writers of extra work as they just ended up literally putting in margins of the scripts, "Robin can go off from here..." He is gone--taken, actually--but what we are left with is the greatest advice anyone can give: never be afraid to embrace life's goofiness. And don't forget to smile.

My favorite story about Robin Williams:

            Before he was discovered in his role as "Mork from Ork" in an episode of Happy Days, the producer of the show, Garry Marshall, was holding auditions for the zany, intergalactic character. Robin walked in the room and stood in front of the table and Marshall asked him to "please have a seat." So, without saying a word, Robin bent down and sat with his head on the seat first. He was immediately offered the role. Later on, when Marshall was asked about his decision, he simply responded with, "He was the only alien that auditioned."

Thank you, Robin.

           

           
 

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Go Ninja Go!

Blue. Red. Purple. Orange. Cowabunga dude!

           

There are a few quartets that have appeared throughout history that can pull off the iconic reputations they've established. The Beatles, The Four Gospels, The Four Seasons, The Renaissance Artists, if you know anymore just shout 'em out. Now, out of the sewers, four completely radical reptiles have reappeared taking on the big screen in the coolest way possible. Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, and Michelangelo are their names and keepin' it real is their game--- along with some sick karate moves and pizza on the side. You don't need me to tell you twice, it's the Ninja Turtles and they've been revamped for a new generation but still never seem to disappoint!

        Woahhh bro, hold on for a sec!    Let's not get too ahead of ourselves because the money-bags Michael Bay (director of the incredibly declined mishaps that became the Transformers Saga) wore the hat of Producer for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles this time around and it shows. BUT. Luckily the turtles themselves make up for his "flawless" taste with great added humor and zany comments that never seem to get old!

        Roll the credits, my shellular friend!   There are a lot of totally awesome things about this cast, though. Let's get the humans out of the way first. Megan Fox. She's April O'Neil, struggling rookie news reporter and the turtles' closest confidant.  For once, she has been granted as the top-bill in a major blockbuster and holds her own pretty well, surprisingly. Besides a few instances where she pushes the dialogue or takes her acting to a Shakespearean level of drama, her presence works but her chemistry with co-star Will Arnett (Arrested Development) lacks a some desired fluidity. Arnett is Vernon, April's cameraman. I'll just throw it out that it is safe to say he has been typecast into his own personality. The superficial, pathetic, douchy-voiced smooth man is pretty much what he does best and brings it into this film as well. Although his jokes and one-liners are funny at times, it would be nice to see him branch out in future roles.

         Turtle Time, dude!    The main attractions are green and ready to be mean. With their rival, the kingpin of the Foot Clan, Shredder is out on the streets of New York ready to takeover, it's time for Splinter (a wise Tony Shaloub) to reveal what all their preparation has built up to.

        Leonardo. The Leader. Johnny Knoxville takes his jackass once again to the big screen but in rare form this time as the voice of the blue mask. His comedic gravelly voice and cool intonation is refreshing and he leads the pack perfectly.

         Raphael. The Attitude. Alan Ritchson has the dumb jock persona down pat as Thad Castle on Blue Mountain State and shows up for work as well while wearing the red bandana and flexing his muscles.

         Donatello. The Brains. Tech saavy and donning four eyes, the goofy Jeremy Howard (The Grinch Who Stole Christmas) rocks the lingo that comes with the purple mask but it seems his voice was a bit distracting being a little too high for the part that Donny takes as one of the brothers.

         Michelangelo. The Kid. Sweet-talking, pizza-loving, nunchuck-wielding, and heavy-hitting. Noel Fisher (Max Keeble's Big Move, Hatfields and McCoys) steals the show as the fun loving orange masked brother steals the show. His young voice and upbeat dialogue make him the best-cast one of the four and he never fails in every scene.

         The cinematography is hard to keep up with at times and Bay's god-awful love for glare effects is something I'll never figure out (and he wasn't even in the director's chair this time!) but you'll have a good time watching it. For a new generation being exposed to the camaraderie and brotherly love that these four promote just proves that they have met icon-status and will never die as the masked-vigilantes that bring out the fun in all of us! GRADE 6.8/10


     
           

Jersey Boys

Hittin' The High Notes

Hey! Turn up the radio, will ya? Frankie and The Seasons are playin' c'mon!

            Try and mimic his voice. Sing me a line of Sherry or Big Girls Don't Cry real quick. You've done it in the car ride home from work and you do it in the shower whether someone is listening or not. As hard as we all try, it can't be done. Frankie Valli's smooth falsetto is something that cannot be duplicated. The story of the Four Seasons is one filled with struggle, confrontation, and fame that goes almost as high as their notes. Now that Clint Eastwood has adapted the Broadway smash hit of the same name, the past can be relived in full force. Let's take a minute and walk like a man, shall we?

            Early '50s. Newark, New Jersey. Bad side of town. Four Seasons' guitarist, Tommy DeVito (a truly hardcore Vincent Piazza) helps take the audience down memory lane by breaking the fourth wall and speaking straight to you from the street corner with a great accent, nonetheless. Along comes hometown good ol' boy Frankie Castelluccio but, you may know him by anotha name (don't know why he ever changed it in the first place). He works as a barber by day but pairs up with Tommy and makes a different kind of livin' once the moon goes down which may not be very legal (I won't tell if you won't, capish?). One thing that isn't a secret is Frankie-boy's angelic voice. Together, the duo becomes a trio to make a few extra bucks as lounge singers and that blossoms into the quartet of Summer, Winter, Fall, and Spring.

             Clint Eastwood takes off his cowboy hat and puts on his director hat to bring the life of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons from the big stage to the big screen. This can be a difficult feat given that Jersey Boys has been nothing but an audience favorite and critically-acclaimed spectacle since 2006 when it first premiered on Broadway.

             The highest achievement in this film is that all four singers were not dubbed over at all during filming according to Mr. Eastwood in a recent interview on The Tonight Show. The talent and strength of John Lloyd Young's falsetto compared to the real thing is spot on and entrancing. Out of the rest of Four Seasons portrayed onscreen, Young is the only one that has taken his talents to both Broadway and film playing the same character. Besides Frankie and Tommy, the other two are Nick Massi and Bob Gaudio (Michael Lomendo and Erich Bergen). Christopher Walken is the epitome of what it means to be a supporting character and sticks it to the man as Gyp DeCarlo, the man behind the fame. One Side Note that also doubles as an Easter Egg is how Joe Pesci (yes, that one) was closely tied with Bob Gaudio's introduction to the band. You may think that's funny, but, Funny How?

            As a longtime fan of the Four Seasons' snappy toe-tapping hits, listening to them again a millionth time is a joy in and of itself but the speed bump that comes between Broadway and the silver screen is that there can only be so many details mixed with the music breaks before the audience becomes confused. While this isn't a musical per se, the time periods jump around a little too fast to not include time stamps as an indication. What makes up for it, though, is the strong and classically vibrant cinematography that could have been taken straight out of your grandparents' photo albums. All in all, it does what it is meant to, serve as a window to the past and croon you back to the sound we all miss. GRADE: 7.1/10

Transformers: Age of Extinction

Autobots: Roll Out... of Control

              Every action movie has an action hero that saves the day, or attempts to most of the time. Michael Bay takes on the fourth installment in what has gone on to become an international imprint into the interstellar mind. Transformers, Transformers: Revenge of The Fallen, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, and now (drumroll please)... Transformers: Age of Extinction. Before I dive into the cacophony of the most recent film, I will go on record saying that at least it has the coolest name of the four. It pains me to be truthful about this film.

Okay, deep breath, I'm ready....

The Age of Extinction is 2014's worst summer blockbuster. There, I said it. exhale.

            For those Marky Mark and The Funky Bunch fans freaking out at what you are reading, bear with me. When one thinks of Transformers films the first thought is not an expectation of killer dialogue or deeply involved characters. That's no secret and if you have been looking forward to that throughout the previous three films then maybe buy a different ticket this time around. The hundreds of millions of fans around the world (mostly grown-up 80's kids) who have loved each one of Michael Bay's renditions of Hasbro's epic action figures love it for one reason and one reason only: the action. Seems obvious, right? See? I'm a smart guy. But I digress, onward!

Mark and Jack, watch out!

            The biggest problem I have: that even the element that makes these movies so watchable is the exact reason it is unwatchable this time around. Explosions and insane stunts make up around 80% of the Transformers films and this movie screams nothing but budget cuts and pyrotechnic flaw. The second biggest problem: it is 2 hours and 45 minutes long! Taking about an hour off of this duration would leave for some of the audience's personal time to be salvaged from the unbearably shaky and distracting cinematography as well as Mr. Mark Wahlberg's new career rock bottom.

            Filling the top-billed performance as this franchise's new superstar, Mark Wahlberg himself has taken his muscles and his Boston accent alllllll the way down to Texas. He is Cade Yeager (that's pronounced "jager" to the college kids in the audience) and he works out of his barn as a picker that buys and sells things just like the guys on the History Channel. His life's work contains using his findings to construct robotic intelligence and then try to resell this for some kind of profit. He is also the incredibly over-protective father to his knock out of a daughter, Tessa (Nicola Peltz, Bates Motel). Her hunky Irish boyfriend (Jack Reynor) gets in the way and ruffles the feathers of the Wahlberg brother nobody wants to cross. There are witty jokes to be had when the daughter's new squeeze slips a kiss in front daddy but unfortunately none of that is found and when there are attempts to lighten the mood it is uncomfortable and just badly timed. Bad vibrations this time around, Marky.


            Michael Bay has constructed a template with these movies. Let me be more specific... just watch the first three movies and the plot never changes, especially now. Only the character names do. The newcomers here include a conniving and brutal Kelsey Grammar (Cheers) who is truly in rare form even with his deep voice that doesn't seem to quit. Stanley Tucci (Hunger Games) plays the billionaire who mirrors an even crazier Steve Jobs and is on the verge of developing something that could break Optimus Prime once and for all and save mankind from the evils of the Transformers!

            The Dinobots! How could I forget the Dinobots?! Mixing up the game are imprisoned dinosaurs that have been forcefully evolved into the prehistoric fiends that can be seen in a movie trailer near you.

            There were parts, however, that even had me on the edge of my seat and it was very very cool to see a Bugotti and Lamborghini join forces with the cast. The career of Nicola Peltz will now be growing faster than Optimus Prime can transform. That can be taken to the bank. Something else that can be taken to the same bank is the check that Hasbro and Mr. Bay will be depositing because this is a phenomenon that will never die despite the quality of the movies. Mark, we still cool? I'm still a huge fan, just go back to Boston and chill out for a bit with your brothers and don't forget to say Hi to your mother for me, okay? GRADE: 5.5/10