Friday, December 31, 2010

The King's Speech

It's been a while since I've heard an audience applaud a film, but that's what happened as the credits rolled on The King's Speech today. The story of King George VI taking the throne at the outset of war, addresses his inability to speak publicly at a time that it was essential to his station. A specialist is employed to help him, the men become friends, and George conquers his impediment. I'm predicting that we see Oscar nominations for Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress and Costumes for this film. Great story, great film.

Friday, December 24, 2010

True Grit

"I heard you were a man with true grit, so I chose you." With these words Mattie Ross enlists Rooster Cogburn to help her track down and avenge her father's murderer. The latest adaptation of the novel True Grit is a heck of a film. The story of Mattie's quest gives us some of the best film performances of this year. The Coen brothers bring their knack for a telling a gritty, genuine story, laced with humor and action, to this classic. Leave your thoughts and feelings for the 1969 version at the door and enjoy this new adaptation. I really liked this one.

Thursday, December 23, 2010

The Fighter

A true story of a boxer's comeback is more about family, trust and loyalty than boxing. The Fighter is based on the story of Micky Ward and his battle with himself and family to succeed in the brutal sport of boxing. The performances in this film will be talked about a lot in this award season. An excellent, compelling film.

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Black Swan

Black Swan is a unique look into the world of ballet theater. The desire of the dancers to be perfect, distorts the performers thoughts and actions. This is a drama that explores how the human psyche handles pressure and expectations. We basically watch a talented young woman lose her mind. Performances are intense and effective. The special effects draw you into Nina's mind. The music provides a background for a world of perfection, distortion, abuse and sexuality. Don't be fooled by the pretty faces and tutus, this film is bloody, erotic and mind bending. An intense drama I really liked.

Friday, December 17, 2010

Friday Flick Picks 12/17/10

The end of the year brings the gift of good film. Oscar contenders open in RI theaters like gifts under the tree. Black Swan, Tron:Legacy and The Fighter top my list. A little eye candy, a little drama. What else is worth seeing? 127 Hours, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1, Tangled and Fair Game. There's a great line-up at the $2 theater this weekend as well. Check it out here. Enjoy!

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Tangled

Tangled is this year's pleasant surprise from Walt Disney Animation Studios. A good story, great action sequences and laugh-out-loud moments makes this film fun for kids and adults alike. I saw it in 2D which looked great. I can see where the 3D probably would have been worth it on this one though. Great to see families enjoying this fun film.

The Inside Job

If the documentary Inside Job is true, this is the most horrific film I've seen in a long time. The financial abuse of the banking industry and the unwillingness of the government to control them, has destroyed the economy of this country. Worth a look, though very disturbing.

Friday, December 10, 2010

Friday Flick Picks 12/10/10

Back to theaters this weekend. I'm hearing that Tangled is worth a look and Inside Job is still playing at the Avon. The Tourist and The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader open at the multiplex here in RI.The Social Network, 127 Hours, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 and Unstoppable are worth a look as well. Enjoy!

Sunday, December 05, 2010

127 Hours

The film 127 Hours is a harrowing, emotional ride. With sound, light, color and acting we are drawn into the ordeal of a man trapped alone in a canyon, and driven to a desperate act. Not easy to watch, but a brilliant film.