Monday, May 31, 2010

Wonder and Wolves in DVD

Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland is released to DVD this week. A decent film that will be fine as a rental s the 3D was totally wasted on this film. In my DVD queue? The Wolfman.

Sunday, May 30, 2010

Mother and Child

The bond of a Mother with her child is a strong one. In the film Mother and Child this relationship is explored with several women. All different, all similar. The actresses that portray these women take the responsibility of telling their stories seriously, and give amazing performances. Through all these characters and stories, many experiences of life as a woman are explored and honored. Even the men in this film are dealt with with respect and emotion. Some scenes are brutally honest, all are very satisfying. This is a film I can't stop thinking about, I'd gladly see it again.

The Sandlot

In my request for DVD recommendations, Melanie & Joe came up with The Sandlot. This stemmed from a discussion about movies they saw as kids that still hold up when you watch them as an adult. Why does this film succeed? Set in the 60s, the story of a rag-tag group of boys spending their summer days playing baseball, visiting the local pool and finding adventure, is very relateable, heartfelt and funny. The production value makes it a lot of fun to watch. Camera work, clever editing and structure make this film interesting visually as well. The legend of "the beast" is creative and really feels like you are in the head of a young boy. Squints brilliant technique to find romance is hilarious!! Great use of music, overall a very strong film. Thanks guys!

Saturday, May 29, 2010

Please Give

Please Give exposes a lot of the flaws and rewards in our day to day relationships. Family, friends, folks we pass on the street. This is the story of a couple who have purchased the apartment next to them on the condition of it's occupant's death. They are awkward acquaintances and the Mother is always looking for a little more meaning in her life. The depth of emotion in this film caught me by surprise, it was a pleasant one.

The Invention of Lying

The Invention of Lying is a pretty big disappointment. Bad acting, strange cameos, annoying characters and a ridiculous story. Glad I didn't waste my time or money on this one in the theater.

Friday, May 28, 2010

Friday Flick Picks 5/28/10

For the first time in 3 weeks I have time to go to the movies and there is NOTHING I want to see in theaters. The new releases are Prince of Persia and Sex and the City 2 and both are getting such awful reviews, I can't bring myself to waste my movie dollar. The local art houses are the oasis, opening City Island, The Secret of Kells and The Secret in Her Eyes is held over. Guess I'll head out of town. Please Give and Mother and Child are playing at the Embassy in Waltham. I may just go see Iron Man 2 again! Enjoy the long weekend.