Reviews

Daredevil Review

Ben Affleck is the undercover vigilante, Daredevil, whose day job is serving as a lawyer, Matt Murdock, to the less than privileged citizens who more than deserve justice. Plagued by a troubling past and sometimes disheartening career, Daredevil retreats to the confessional of the church and maintains a level of secretive aloneness. Daredevil's heroic ways are driven by his super human senses triggered by blindness mixed with a relentless yearning for vengeance upon wrong-doers. However, when he meets the enchanting and beautiful Electra, played by Jennifer Garner, and the wicked Bullseye, played by Colin Farrell, Daredevil is met with the ultimate test of survival.

In the midst of the cartoon-like Spiderman, Daredevil is more reminiscent of darker films, such as Bat Man. Even its setting mirrors Gotham City. While the plot is very contrived, the fighting overly choreographed, and the digital effects often unnecessary, Daredevil never fails to be unique and interesting.

Primarily, even though Affleck isn't always believable as the action hero (or in this case, super hero), his role calls for a certain vulnerability and sensitivity sometimes hard to come by in actors, but which he fulfills wonderfully without drawing the movie into melodrama... which is a task Affleck is a pro at. Garner's portrayal of a determined and strong, yet emotionally responsive romantic interest and parallel to Affleck's character, is as expected, dazzling. Affleck and Garner revive the sincere and grander than life type romance that is often absent in today's cinema.

Another great aspect about Daredevil, that distinguishes it from its peers, are the villains. Colin Farrell once again proves his range as an actor, giving a strong and even humorous performance as a somewhat neurotic, slick, and undoubtedly evil Bullseye. Michael Clark Duncan as the cold, yet somehow likeable, and not to mention dangerous, Kingpin is not just physically towering, but an actor who always brings his characters to greater heights than probably scripted.

And let us not forget the other supporting roles, including the always charming Jon Favreau as the Daredevil's closest friend, the surprising new talent Scott Terra as a young Daredevil, the great Joe Pantileona as the Daredevil's admiring observer, and David Keith, who depicted the Daredevil's father with amazing depth and sincerity. Although I must discontinue mentioning more highlights, fortunately, the list does go on.

Visually, the movie is mesmerizing - not necessarily for the action sequences, but for the still moments. The overall look and sound is original and appealing, with marvelous shades of blue, a not too obnoxious rock score, and meticulous detail to sound effects and camera work. And while the symbolism is not subtle, it isn't at the least bit pretentious.

But the film is far from perfect, though it may seem otherwise in this review. The tragic tone barely is relieved and is unsatisfying for the viewer - especially because it is not too purposeful. While this story does have a conscience, the theme is very mixed. At times, human life is devalued and vengeance is never clearly revealed as good or bad. Now this could be acceptable in a more farcical entertainer, but since Daredevil dares to dig deeper, this fact is very frustrating. Perhaps a sequel may answer these questions, but for a movie that can be considered a downer, I doubt the average viewer will be hungry for more, despite the compelling and touching moments the film offers. Daredevil is ultimately insufficient because it has a certain romance and drama and sweetness and good buy vs. bad guy quality that usually stops before it gets good and is too unbelievable to really connect with the movie-goer. And because Daredevil is more character driven than anything, the climax and suspense need to hold a more realistic feel in order to be effective - and unfortunately, it does not.

Nonetheless, for the refreshing characteristics that Daredevil has and the intriguing cast, I recommend it. But do not expect to take away as much as you'd like.

Drew Barrymore is a girl (Beverly) with a dream to go to college and escape the poorer working class lifestyle and take on the Big Apple, but she is thrust into the world of motherhood, much to the disappointment of her father, played excellently by James Woods. Beverly must sacrifice her original plans and marry her son's father, Ray, also played wonderfully by Steve Zahn. She lacks the motive of love, so when Ray's somewhat good-natured but weak disposition leads him to the prison of drug addiction, her next decision is not too difficult.

Drew Barrymore's likeability and honesty on camera saves her from her flawed approach and inability to age correctly throughout the picture (but let's note that the latter is not solely her fault). However, the rest of the cast are undoubtedly believable as somewhat confused, but good-willed citizens of the not-quite-middle-class. Steve Zahn's portrayal of a hopeless, yet loveable loser is fabulous, and James Woods gives an extraordinary, yet understated performance as a father trying to do what's best but not always succeeding. Others, including Adam Garcia as Beverly's troubled son and Britney Murphy as Beverly's best friend give great, charming performances as well.

This is a movie that effectively and humorously explores how fighting for a dream can sometimes overshadow what is really important in our lives, but not having one at all can lead to a self-destructive, paralytic life. Beverly must learn that her determined ambition to overcome adversity may also be equally as reckless and sometimes plans for the future must change, and even so, things will not always go according to plan.

The female characters are depicted much more realistically than in the favorite romantic comedies of today, so women should find this movie easy to relate too, even if they didn't have a baby out of wedlock. There are some genuinely touching and funny moments, but the romance is too gritty (and certainly not the main focus) to make this a full fledged chick flick. Females should love it even more, simply because of this.

What is frustrating about this film, though, is I feel the story was not given enough justice. There were uneven moments throughout the picture, and Drew barely delivers. But the script could stand alone, and with the help of great actors, it triumphed!

I thoroughly enjoyed every second of this terrible film. After seeing such cool horror flicks like "The Ring" and "28 Days Later", this movie was laughable at best.

Some critics and audience members alike have said that the opening was somewhat impressive and eerie, but I don't even give "Darkness Falls" that much credit. Besides the back-story, which is provided at the start and obviously not even an original idea of the script writer, this movie goes completely downhill. Although I did appreciate a few of the lines and the cast had it's moments, I was impressed more-so at the unintentional humor throughout the film.

Okay, I'll stop with the bashing and provide a little reasoning behind it. The tooth-fairy witch lady who is the evil demon of this story is a shady figure with a white mask and black cape -- it gets worse... she darts in and out randomly with annoying gurgle-like sounds that come from her ghost of a throat. And for some reason, a man and a little boy have been traumatized by this irritating attacker who only comes out at night. And of course this little boy has some kind of insight into this witch's world and I guess that is supposed to be frightening (another trick I guess) -- but "The Sixth Sense" and "The Ring", and maybe even "Signs" have really worn out that idea. This movie may give new meaning to the power of a flashlight, but the drama and action that ensues is so silly and un-scary that you being to wonder if this movie is maybe a practical-joke! On top of that, nothing makes sense at all... there are so many plot holes, you could grade cheese with this flick.

But if you're looking for a good laugh, go rent it... because it's a lot funnier than your typical and intentional comedy right now.

Consider this review for the Harry Potter epic as a whole...

Perhaps it is because I am not a reader of the books, but I don't understand the Potter hype. Now, when "The Worst Witch" was in good syndication, I never missed a chance to catch that on TV and I've been trying to track down a video of it. In my opinion, "The Worst Witch" runs circles around Harry Potter and his gang. Now I understand that special effects, fancy camera tricks, and that cinematic feel is not necessarily present in "Witch" - BUT - lets do a little comparison, and ignore the distinct differences for right now.

Many of the plot elements and characterization of "Potter" are almost directly taken right out of "Witch" -- the cursed broomstick, the flying lesson, the basic idea of witch school and the customs, the headmistress, and the potion gone wrong... etc... now, I think it's mighty fine for artists to mimic others and combine new slants with old ideas. I just think "Witch" did a much better job.

Now I am a huge fan of simplicity and understated elegance on camera, which is evident in such adventure epics as Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and other classics that are certainly some of my favorites. But I can't stand one-dimensional characters. And unfortunately, to the credit of the younger Harry Potter actor, or his director - but probably his writer, he is as interesting as a molding peace of cheese - maybe somewhat interesting at times, but not at all appealing. And I have a lot of beef with computer generated graphics - because they do not look even remotely authentic. Spielberg's original ET is much more charming and realistic looking than his new digital one in the special release DVD, and I think even Star Wars fans can agree that the characters in the original trilogy are much easier to relate to and appreciate than the new cartoons... and Spiderman's little tricks were not that impressive... Now "Lord of the Rings" did prevail in the digital world... but in general, if you're going digital - get it right, or go digital all the way (like "Toy Story", or "Finding Nemo") --- Any way, I hope I'm getting my point across..

Bottom line - Harry Potter is way to farcical for my taste, and while I may be enveloped in some nice suspense while watching in the theater and I enjoy a lot of the visuals and basic entertainment of it all - that is it. There is nothing below the surface here, and that bores me to death. And if like other fantasies, their was a clearer magic logic, perhaps this movie would go much further for me. For example, "Witch" had such a realism to it, like "Wizard of Oz", "LOTR" and "Willy Wonka" did - but "Harry Potter" just lacks that believability.

If only Spielberg had directed as he was originally going to do with Haley Joel Osmant in the lead - but they had to go British, didn't they?

Well, shall I say ostentatious and cynical, rather...

I find myself frustrated when I read bad reviews of good movies. I know that it is a critic's job to be critical, hence their title... and I know that a critic can still appreciate a movie and still use wit and intelligence to point out some of its flaws... and I also know that a critic should not conform to other's views but I've unfortunately glanced over a few biting reviews of this film. It's really disgusting. The only reason I see that one would denounce this film as one of the worst of all time is that they are trying to go against the grain to seem really smart or ironic. "Pirates of the Caribbean" is one of the greatest movies of all-time - finally an Indiana Jones/Star Wars type adventure for the modern generation. And even if an audience member (or critic...) didn't personally enjoy the film (which I find very hard to believe) - he or she can at least admire it for all the technical achievements and brilliant writing, editing, cinematography, direction, acting...! Any way, my point is, there is a line that a supposed critic can cross over, they can cross over into cynicism... in which a reader of his or her review should question whether this person knows anything about movies in the first place. "Pirates of the Caribbean" is a masterpiece and I don't think the readers on IMDB need to be told that, they should just go see it! A crowd pleaser with depth and intelligence, finally! It is times like these when I thank God for Disney and Johnny Depp!

It's been a few weeks since I've seen this magnificent film, so I have had some much needed time to recover from the aftershock - and I have been able to reflect upon its many layers.

My brother said that although he thoroughly enjoyed the movie, he didn't find it scary at all, so maybe it just depends on the person - but I think this film was one of the most horrifying experiences. Probably because it could really happen and probably because Boyle did not use cartoon like computer monsters, but real people and real ideas to send goose bumps up your spine. The cast was absolutely charming and they kept you completely engaged every second of this creepy yet visually and emotionally satisfying film.

I have to say, I've been impressed with the movies this summer (although technically this was originally released in 2002) -- and this one is no exception! Of course I could only expect a lot when I learned Boyle directed it - he has a gift for hypnotizing his film viewers, and I certainly am not immune to his powers - nor do I want to be!

"28 Days Later" opens with animal activists who free caged apes - little do they know that the monkeys are no ordinary monkeys, but monkeys with a contagious disease. The film follows Cillian Murphy's character after he wakes up in a hospital, naked as the day he was born, to find London evacuated due to an infectious rage among its people that has ravaged the city, as well as other parts of the globe -how far and to what extent we, the audience member, never really learn. But that's not important - the scenario is instantly believable and we are enthralled with the plot right from the get go.

The thought that each one of us, stripped away from rational by a simple illness, can turn into a murderous savage is a hard one to stomach - but also a very intriguing one that can inquire us to determine how far our morals really go when there is no society and when there are only two options - death or survival.

So even if you are a horror flick veteran and an infected won't freak you out - this movie is not one to miss and not one to be taken lightly!

I'm surprised at the harsh reviews and low rating of this movie!

Unlike other so-called "chick flicks", this movie has an authentic appeal to it and a real heart. Sandra Bullock is a shamed and distraught mother returning to her hometown after being dejected by her husband on national television. She is the beauty queen turned humiliated housewife and her old neighbors don't hesitate to rub it in. Sandra's strong-willed and adorable daughter is played wonderfully by Mae West. Their dysfunctional relationship is a central plot element throughout the film. Sandra finds strength in her own mother and finds new romance with a strong, sensitive cowboy type played surprisingly well by Harry Conick Jr.

Sandra must come to terms with her changing identity and role as mother while her daughter fights for a false allusion of Sandra's husband. An impending divorce between Sandra and her husband and the struggles of Sandra's daughter and nephew, create many heartbreakingly touching moments and at last - an intriguing story with a sense of humor.

Living in Texas and having visited a few small towns, I can state that the movie's portrayal of small town life is a very realistic one which only adds to the films' effectiveness.

"Spirited Away" is a charming fantasy that will sweep you off your feet! The often strange and unpredictable adventure follows the likeable little girl, Chihiro, as she struggles to save her imprisoned parents at a bathhouse for spirits.

Chihiro is a thoughtful, sensitive, and justifiably scared young girl who grows into a courageous and triumphant hero. When her somewhat absent-minded parents venture into unknown territory, a detour on their way to a new home, Chihiro immediately senses danger and encourages her parents to retreat. However they become trapped in a land of spirits and are turned into pigs, at the mercy of Yubabba. Chihiro is the only surviving human and she encounters an older mysterious boy, Haku, who guides her on her journey to rescue her parents. She meets many bizarre creatures, some good and some bad. Highlights include Yubaba, a frightening older lady of sorts, the haunting "no-face", and the surprisingly loveable coal miners (shall I say). The "Spirited Away" story not only delivers thrilling suspense, but plenty of laughs!

Although "Spirited Away" is not your typical Disney musical, Hisaishi's score is quite enchanting, adding a whimsical touch.

As far as aesthetic appeal, there are many awe-inspiring and stunning scenes throughout the animation that will transport you into a brilliant, dream-like world that has been creatively crafted.

Certainly not your average animated tale, "Spirited Away" promises to be odd, yet irresistible, for adults and children alike. Important universal themes about love and bravery are reinstated in a wondrous and uplifting illustration.

"Spirited Away" is probably the best Japanese film yet, with great English voice-overs bringing to life all its memorable characters!

I had not heard much about "The Glass House", besides unfavorable reviews by critics, who claimed it was a ridiculous display of unintentional humor. However, when I came across it casually on HBO, I was immensely surprised and impressed!

The story was gripping and I loved the character development - which is so rare in thrillers today. I thought the cast was brilliant, especially Diane Lane and Stellan Skarsgard. Stellan's character was completely chilling, and he played it so effectively. And Diane's character was also wonderfully displayed - despite her terrible actions at times, you can't help but empathize with her a bit, due to Diane's emotional investment in the role. And Trevor Morgan (who I also recently saw in "A Rumor of Angels") is sure to do very well on the big screen for years to come... he's very good for such a young kid. And Leelee Sobieski... she was weak at times, but I felt that she was perfect for the part. She has kind of an authentic look to her and she was casted very well for the part. She had on-screen appeal without being too obnoxiously cutsie. She did a fair job, certainly enough to fulfil the director's vision of the movie - I'm sure of that.

As far as the story goes, it's got everything you could want in a thriller. There were some holes, but some of my favorite movies of all-time have holes and I think it's really too much to ask for a perfect film. But it's downfall was that at times it was a bit predictable - but for me, that only enhanced the movie's suspense.

I greatly enjoyed this movie and I think you will too. I'll agree with the critics that there are some technical flaws in some of the story's details - but over all, the story was very compelling and told VERY well, great development of it's characters and all the events were portrayed very believably, the director definitely kept the audience's trust and attention. So, I recommend it - despite the critic's bashing of the film. Personally, as a teenager, I thought the portrayal of LeeLee's high school was very realistic and so that definitely caught my attention in a good way. Little things like that, that are usually not apparent in most movies today, certainly made up for other little flaws. So, go catch it on HBO or rent it! It's good!