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Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)
Revenge, fighting... more fighting
Revenge is the main factor driving Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, where 10 winters have past since the outbreak of the vaccine that changed the world. Leaving only those immune, this lead to the predictable story line of man and ape coming together. In comparison to the previous movie, 'Rise of the Planet of the Apes', director Matt Reeves doesn't seem to have a grasping enough story line unlike Rupert Wyatt managed with the previous movie.
The hooking character of Will Rodman played by James Franco is missed from Rise Of the Planet of the Apes; his and Caesar's emotional relationship touching the audience. I find this gap is not filled in Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, as the lead actor Jason Clance, playing Malcolm, just doesn't present a strong enough feel of emotion when connecting and interacting with the apes. On the other hand, Keri Russell reflects her emotions towards viewers when playing Ellie; a survivor with a tough and caring attitude, even when disclosing her tragic past. All her efforts are greatly let down by boyfriend Malcolm's (Jason Clance) lack of emotion. The most recognizable face of course being Gary Oldman, playing Dreyfus; the cowardly leader of the remaining population and typical 'baddy'. Considering Oldman's film history, high expectations were made, but once again we were all let down by the lack of emotion shown... just over the top, bad acting!
Looking at Andy Serkis' attempt at Caesar once again, I found that was where I was grasped as a viewer, as his pain and anger was reflected through the way he held himself, and the sudden words spoken, roaring throughout the cinema. All the apes created a visually magnificent experience, but found myself switching off during the drawn out scenes of either fighting or Jason Clance. A waste of graphics due to a poorly written film, lacking all the great qualities of the previous movie.
Anna (2013)
An unusually designed thriller which in every way delivers
An unusually designed film which in every way delivers the themes of deceptive, sycophantic, cooperative behaviour.
The director of Orphan and non-stop, Jorge Dorado; he manages to use a selection of true emotions, portrayed beautifully by actor Mark Strong and actress Taissa Farmiga. I think Jorge Dorado's intent for this film was to create a thrill full experience for the audience, accomplishing his desired aim.
The star presence of Mark Strong engaged myself as we're all used to the striking villain role and tough guy he's often referred to playing. Strong's character John, is much opposite; faultless, innocent, gentle. When taking his first job after a traumatic experience, he becomes overly involved with Anna; portraying this soft character. Taissa Farmiga plays Anna, a girl who ultimately has many qualities and sides to her which perfectly reflects her deceptive persona. She's almost predictable in her behaviour, allowing you to piece the outcome of the film together, but saying this, not all is lost from the unexpected twist. In comparison to these two characters, I find others just seem to fade within the film; this includes Brian Cox's mediocre performance as Sebastian.
Although I find the film to be not that original, I enjoy the concept and thought Jorge Dorado did a marvellous job as a director. A sinister type of setting, with the added creepiness of the flip back and forth from mind to reality. Saying this, I find the film misses points of explanation... what was with that "Mousey" confusion? Apart from these minimalist mistakes, I can say with honesty that it was well worth the watch!