"Let Me In" REVIEW REWRITE!

There's always that nails-on-a-chalkboard reaction when audiences hear another film remake is on the way. Especially for a film embraced by critics and viewers as Tomas Alfredson's chilling Swedish vampire-film "Let The Right One In." Sometimes we get remakes that bastardize the original film and are churned out to exploit a fan-base. To all die-hard fans of the 2008 original film and novel: lay down your wooden stakes. With "Let Me In", Writer/Director Matt Reeves has not only crafted one of the best horror films of recent years, but a film that will go down, along with John Carpenter's remake of "The Thing," as one of the best remakes ever.


The basic premise revolves around a reclusive and viciously bullied boy named Owen (Kodi Smith McPhee) as he befriends a vampire-girl named Abby (Chloe Moretz). As the story between the children unfolds, a string of death and tragedy surround their friendship. Story-wise, this film is less of a remake and more of a well-told adaptation of the original Swedish novel. What Revees brilliantly changed is the Swedish landscape to the American landscape and how much that adds to the narrative while still staying true to what made the original film and the novel work to reinvent the vampire story and tell a fascinating story.


"Let Me In" takes place in Ronald Reagan-era 1983 in Los Alamos, New Mexico. During the time when Reagan famously stated "The evil was around America". This adds a chilling and frightening resonance to this vampire coming-of-age story that focuses on the violent nature of growing up and punctuates that chilling fear from the 1980s. Everything in the translation from the original Swedish landscapes works well for an American context. When watching the film, it's hard to not feel that wave of nostalgia and flashback to that moment in your childhood where you felt different from everyone else or befriended the new next door neighbor and plunked down five dollars at the local arcade together.


The writing is so textured that Revees nails it on the head with the emotional beats to where you have a strong sense of pathos to each of these characters. Moretz delivers a mature and chilling performance as Abby. McPhee's performance as Owen is hard to not have empathy for, given the sad nature of being a child of divorce and brutal bullying, a really great performance by McPhee. Richard Jenkin's brilliant performance as "the father" communicates so much with very few words and his eyes that he becomes the stand out performance from the cast.

The direction by Revees is great as well. The cinematography is gorgeous. It uses a yellow hue of streetlamps against the snow to create this gritty and realistic tone to the film. While the film is in the fantasy realm with vampires, this little touch grounds it in reality. The locations are nostalgically recognizable and they seem like that neighborhood you grew up in years past. The shots and the pacing take a leisurely approach. The long shots and slow pace allows for the audience to pick things that once you see the film again, you notice all the little subtleties that Revees put in and it makes the viewing more rewarding.

The film has so much heart that it transcends the horrific elements and becomes really a sweet coming-of-age film between a boy and a vampire-girl. Though this is a remake, don't let that stop you from seeing this. This remake stands above the rest as a film not made for a profit, but because this story deserves to be retold. Revees proves with this film that with the right storyteller and intention, there can still be some great remakes. The story is one of the more profound and original vampire stories to be told. FULL-PRICE!!

9 of 10

"Let Me In" REVIEW

There is always that nails-on-a-chalkboard reaction when audiences hear another film remake is on the way. Especially for a film embraced by critics and viewers as Tomas Alfredson's chilling Swedish vampire-film "Let The Right One In." Sometimes we get remakes that bastardize the original film and are churned out to exploit a fanbase. To all die-hard fans of the 2008 original film: lay down your wooden stakes. With "Let Me In", Writer/Director Matt Reeves has not only crafted one of the best horror films of recent years, but a film that will go down, along with John Carpenter's remake of "The Thing", as one of the best remakes ever.


The basic premise revolves around a reclusive and viciously bullied boy named Owen (Kodi Smith McPhee), as he befriends a vampire-girl named Abby (Chloe Moretz.) As the story between the children unfolds, a string of death and tragedy surround their friendship. Story-wise, this film is less of a remake and more of a well-told translation of the original Swedish story. What Matt Revees has done so brilliantly with this film is have the change to the American landscape add to the narrative.


"Let Me In" takes place in Ronald Regan era 1983 in Los Alamos, New Mexico. During the time when Regan famously stated that "The evil was around America." This change adds a chilling and frightening resonance to this vampire coming-of-age story that focuses on the violent nature of growing up and punctuates that chilling fear from the 1980's. Everything in the translation from the original Swedish landscapes works well for an American context. When watching the film, it's hard to not feel that wave of nostalgia and flashback to that moment in your childhood where you felt different from everyone else or befriended the new next door neighbor and plunked down five dollars at the local arcade together.


The writing is so textured that Matt Revees nails it on the head with the emotional beats to where you have a strong sense of pathos to each of these characters. Chloe Moretz delivers a mature and chilling performance as Abby. Kodi Smith-McPhee's performance as Owen is hard to not have empathy for given the sad nature of being a child of divorce and brutal bullying. Just a really great performance by Kodi. Richard Jenkin's brilliant performance as "The Father" communicates so much with very few words and his eyes that he becomes the stand out performance from the cast.

This film doesn't try to outdo the original film, but brilliantly reinterprets some of the events and attains it's own identity. The film has so much heart, that it transcends the horrific elements and becomes really a sweet coming-of-age film between a boy and a vampire-girl. Don't let the fact that this is a remake of a great film stop you s from seeing this. This remake stands above the rest as a film not made for a profit, but because this story deserves to be retold. In walking out of this film, the argument between the folks waiting in line shifted from whether or not this movie was any good to whether the original or this film was the superior film. Matt Revees proves with this film that with the right storyteller and intention, there can still be some great remakes. FULL-PRICE!!

9 of 10

Buried REVIEW!

There comes a film that taps into a primal fear and puts you through an intense experience unlike anything you’ve ever experienced before. "Buried" is that rare film. What Director Rodrigo Cortés manages to put together, with the writing talent of Chris Sparling and the amazing acting talent of Ryan Reynolds, is a brilliant exercise in claustrophobic tension that grabs you from the beginning and doesn’t let you go till it’s pulse pounding finale.

The story of the film is gripping from the very first frame. The premise of the film is contract truck driver; Paul Conroy (Ryan Reynolds) wakes up in a coffin buried underground after a convoy ambush in Iraq. It’s a man-trapped-in-a-box story, but it’s told in a fresh way that re-invents the rules on this genre of high-tension thriller. The film takes place entirely in the coffin for the whole 90-minute run-time. The film never slows down or lets up and it’s just an intense experience and definitely not an easy one to sit through at points. What screenwriter Chris Sparling does so brilliantly with this screenplay is that he continually ups the ante and the stakes, especially for it being a film that takes place entirely in a coffin underground. With every plot twist that happens in the film, you feel that knife twist and turn as Sparling manages to turn a situation from bad to worse. It starts off with a real nail-biter premise that reaches on the Hitchcockian levels of tension that continually surprises and leaves you on edge. Then you reach the end of the first act…all bets are off.



It’s impossible to talk about this film without talking about the amazing performance by Ryan Reynolds. He’s pitch perfect for this role as Paul. This is the type of role that could have been played ugly or that could have outstayed its welcome very fast in the hands of another actor. It’d be tough to imagine anyone else bringing as much emotional integrity, believability, and humanity to this role of a man trapped in the worse of situations that is only getting worse by the minute. Reynolds shows a raw range and a depth to his performance that you just can’t take your eyes off of him or want to leave the coffin without him. The performance holds so much charisma and reliability so emotionally textured and draining that you feel for Paul as each second on the clock ticks as he becomes more unstable and unsure of the outcome of this situation. It’s a fantastic performance that is worthy of the praise as Reynolds successfully carries the whole film from six feet under and in total blackness.

Director Rodrigo Cortés does an outstanding job with the direction of the film. For this film taking as many risks as it does on the screenplay level, Cortés rises to the occasion as he takes more risks with the direction of the film. Most of the film is told in silence with little sound effects and Cortés allows the audience to drown in the lack of details on-screen and puts you through this tense, so that any new development that occurs or when any new item is found; it hard the audience as hard as a child getting an early Christmas present. This fear of the unknown and the sense of being trapped in darkness only helps to heighten the tension of the film as we invest more into Paul as a character. Cortés also reinvents this claustrophobic genre of thriller by using some truly amazing camera movements while in the coffined space of the coffin. For the film being entirely underground, there is certainly a lot of action that just doesn’t let up. Cortés doesn’t bend to the confines of the coffin; he reinvents it and delivers something that we truly haven’t seen before.

While I did thoroughly enjoy the experience with the film, I do have a small grip with it. Revealing this gripe without giving any spoilers would be impossible. All I will say is that it occurs in the final act of the picture, but it doesn’t detract or ruin the experience. It’s a small nitpick at best. I’d give this movie a FULL-PRICE!! Definitely go check this out in a theater because it is such a original and amazing experience going with this ride.

9 of 10

The Book of Eli REVIEW!

A solid Post-apocalyptic movie! It's a fun thrill ride! This film is a harken back to the old classic post-apocalyptic films of the 70's, while also being a film that is a traditional Samurai film. Denzel plays a badass like usually! While of course the religious themes are present in the film, it doesn't beat you over the head with them. I dug the film as an alternative apocalyptic films of today. While it does take place in that world, the world doesn't overwelm the story and the story is actually solid. The 3rd act of the film has a great twist, but it doesn't drag the film at all. In fact it almost makes the film and Denzel that much more awesome. In terms of the acting Denzel is the best. Gary Oldman is as hammy in the role as he is called to be, but he's a fun villain to watch, Mila Kunis was ok, but she doesn't drag the film down. Overall, a surprisingly good film and a good time. I'd say it's a solid FULL-PRICE!

Moon Review

Fantastic film! Sam Rockwell proves he is a real talent in entertainment with his brillant performance as Sam Bell. I just loved the direction this film went in and the twist is fantastic and it combines elements that made the classic space movies work so well. It just gave me a new spin on space travel and the mental hurdles one goes through for that long and in complete isolation. Overall, this film is a FULL-PRICE! I loved it!

Fantastic Mr. Fox QUICKSHOT REVIEW!

Wow! Wes Anderson can direct a animated film and he comes off like a pro his first time through! Definitely a fantastic and well made film and everything works so well, but you can smell Wes Anderson from a far. Some of the jokes are sorta out of place, but doesn't detract from the heart of the picture. The animation is weird, but that fades away quickly and you end up losing yourself in the story! FULL-PRICE!!!

Christmas Carol in 3-D REVIEW!

Robert Zemeckis is at it again with the all CGI film again, but only in this case: it works really well with the story and it is the only way this story could have been done to do it justice. Charles Dicken's eerie classic story is faithfully told with the right tone, the right look, and the right angle. This film is very dark as Dickens' original novel was parable for righting wrongs and it for the most part doesn't talk down to it's ideas.

First off, the performances were spot on. Of course this is a CGI movie, but the director's intention is to keep some of the actors in the film as much as possible, but the film can't help itself from feeling as if these performances were being compromised or changed as the animators saw fit. Gary Oldman is great in his role as Bob Cratchit and you really feel for his situation. One of my favorite aspects is that they really sell the idea that the Cratchit household is just a depressing place with no ray of hope in sight, but these people hang onto that hope because it is all they have left. Jim Carrey did a fantastic job as Scrooge. Jim Carrey plays Scrooge as the mean and the downright despicable old man that you just can't help, but hate in the opening of the picture. His Scrooge is just a oddly shaped human being that is just as much thrilling as it is disturbingly scary to watch him throughout the film. He does a great job as the ghosts as well. I thought Jim Carrey was the highlight of the film.

The other great thing about this film is that Zemeckis gets the soul of the story down! He gets the griminess of the story and that works well in playing the fact that this isn't a happy setting for Scrooge and it gives him more reason for his change later on in the picture. There is no real presence of Tiny Tim as he was just a side character, and I didn't miss Tiny Tim much. This film does away with the campy and family elements that the previous pictures had, but it does keep all of the depressing aspects intact. The creepy and depressing aspects is what is really going to sell this movie to mature and young audiences. I think that this is definitely a really dark film, but you can take your kids to see this. The 3D definitely worked and I thought it was great!

With all of my praise of the film, I didn't think the film was entirely perfect. The only aspect that I think the film lost me was in the last scene in which Scrooge is being chased by the ghost of christmas future. it is a common criticism. That scene seemed more played for laughs and it downplayed the more depressing aspect about the film, but thankfully it doesn't last long and Zemeckis gets right back on track with getting rid of Scrooge's squeaky voice and his size change and getting serious once again before any real harm is done the integrity of the picture.

Overall, a very faithful rendition of Charles Dickens' classic story. I thought that Jim Carrey, Robert Zemeckis, and crew have done a fantastic job retelling this classic story to a new audience. While I thought the only flaw was a choice with the last act, Zemeckis nails everything else. This is easyily above what Polar Express and Beowulf did both technically and storytelling wise. I'd give this one a FULL-PRICE! Check this out!

Saw Movies (From least to greatest)

Here is my list for the all-time best Saw films from least to greatest!

#6. SAW V

While this saw was definitely the worst of the bunch, I felt that this one was just filler. It lead up to nothing really and didn't present anything interesting that we hadn't seen before. although not terrible, it just was a bit of a letdown. Not as interesting as the previous films.

RENTAL

6 of 10

#5. SAW IV

This one was good in the fact that it kept up the energy and it was for all intents and purposes a Saw film! This one was surprising that it did keep Jigsaw a critical part in the film, but in flashbacks. While this one was more surprising in the fact that it showed the series did have some legs to last a few more pictures. I am willing to believe that this one was a great start off point for the 2nd trilogy!

RENTAL

6 of 10

#4. SAW VI

Easyly the best of the 2nd trilogy! I dug this one more for the questions it asked and it was more satisfying than the last 2 films. This is what this 2nd trilogy was building up to. While this one is still a good movie, the ending seems a bit shoe-horned in with a character's conclusion that I felt the producers may have decided to keep it around for another sequel to be made. Overall, a satisfying Saw film!

MATINEE

7 of 10

#3. SAW II

I thought a sequel was warranted and as soon as I heard James Wan wasn't going to direct it, I had little hope in this sequel. I think that this film surpassed my expectations. This one decided to crank up what the last film had to offer in terms of the traps. This one was just a fun time to watch and just was gorey as hell. I dug this sequel!

FULL-PRICE!

8 of 10

#2 SAW III

This film was actually better than the last. I thought it had improved when they decided to revert back to an introspective story and fewer characters, it was mote satisfying to watch and get the emotional connection to each of the characters. I thought that the gore was definitely cranked up a few notches and it was trurly hard to watch in some scenes. The actors were also signifcantly more better than the last few films as there was some talent behind this one for the leads. The traps were elegant and satifyingly gruesome. I easily the best sequel of them all.

FULL PRICE!

8 of 10

1. SAW

Nothing could top the original for me. I felt that this one was made with at least an actual intent on making a good movie. Bad acting aside, this one was directed decently enough. I thought that the film had a great hook, and it did deliver for me. The thing about this film was that it wasn't about the gore, it was more about the connection of the dots. The traps play a small part in the film and the aftermath is what sells the scene. This one was more subtle in nature and didn't try to become a gore fest. Overall, I thought the film was tightly constructed and it had a great plot and the storyline was good. This movie was an intense experience and it was a mix of old and new styles. This redefined the horror genre for this generation.

FULL-PRICE!

9 of 10

Here ya go guys! Check this films out because unlike Friday the 13th or those other horror franchises, Jigsaw is maybe the most fascinating of all the characters out today. These are a decent series of films and I do enjoy it for they are.

Black Dynamite REVIEW!

If I was to describe this movie in one word?...DYNAMITE! God! I enjoyed the hell out of this film! This is a perfect send-off of old classic blaxploitation films. This film captured that vibe of a very low budget film that just had one thing going for it: a cool ass character and the biggest leading man for the role. I don't even think I can go as far as to call the film a parody, because while it is hysterically funny, it doesn't hit you with the jokes as blatantly as it some other spoofs do. This film has a heart to it and it takes it's subject matter seriously to a certain extent. This is more of a film inspired by that nostalgic era in the 1970's where you just had these rushed shoe-string-budget films come out on the market. These movies were the equivalent of what a direct to video movie is these days. These films were made for a certain crowd and it was made to be just a fun time. This film nails that vibe and I ended up loving the living hell out of this film.

The script...is utter crap. Like the films that this was inspired by There is no reason for this film to exist apart from the fact that they want to make a film that had a black cop busting crime, doing kung-fu, kicking a lot of ass, sticking it to the man, and having his way with the ladies. Black Dynamite is that film that escaped from the 70's and brought into today's world. The story is just overly cheesy. The script is full of plot twists that undercut the previous plot twists. Flashbacks are used to tell stories about how characters came to be when it is not needed. It also has a ridiculous conspiracy involving malt liquor. All of this leads up to a last act that just becomes truly unbelievable. Does this mean the film's story is bad? Yes! But is it boring to watch? NOT BY A LONG SHOT! All of these flaws serve to help the film reach that level of entertainment where you can just sit back and enjoy the film's flaws for once. The script maybe mediocore, but it's just a lot of fun to watch! The film is freaking hysterical. The writers definitely knew what it wanted to be and they did a great job in making a retro-feeling blaxploitation film! There are tons of great one-liners, action sequences, fight scenes, deaths, and gags that you are just going to really dig the hell out of. It's just a treat to walk into this movie and just laugh all throughout!

The acting overall is bad. But it's purposefully bad. It's not painful to watch, but quite the contrary, it makes the fun just so damn enjoyable and fun to watch. The main actor that sticks out here is Michael Jai White's performance as Black Dynamite. He has a presence that is reminiscent of a Shaft-like character, but you don't watch this film for one second and think about Shaft or any of the classic characters of this genre. Black Dynamite sticks out among the crowd and he is fucking awesome! You can't help but cheer when this character is just kicking ass and blowing shit up or laugh hysterically when he tries to deliver a line that holds a semblance that resembles serious emotionality. Michael's performance is spot on. When the performance is off, he knows. That is the whole point! This is classic blaxploitation character that is just badass and is everything a man wishes he could be and do! Just a hysterical performance!

The one thing I walked out of this film really enjoying was the cinematography. The film was shot on a super 16mm camera and what that does is just give the film just a high contrast feel that it was made for dirt cheap. But it works to the film's advantage and the cinematography almost becomes a character in the film. There's not much to say about how the film looks. It looks like crap. The lighting is horrible, but that is the intention. The editing techniques employ a lot of the fads that was present such as split-screening during the action. Or having long periods of green-screen work that clearly couldn't be ok in any other film apart from this genre. Or even having stock footage of a car blowing up or a big budget effect. They all stand out, but it's just a hysterical thing to watch onscreen!

THIS FILM IS THOUGHLY ENTERTAINING! There are so many gags for the film buffs and the movie loving crowd that you just forgive the film and you take these "flaws" as the tone of the film! Not in a while was I more happier to just watch a "bad" film and just walk out of it really loving it. All I can say is that Tarrantino and Rodriquez are going to be pissed off. This is how you really pull off exploitation films! Unlike Tarrantino's and Rodriquez's Grindhouse (2007), this film nails that look, tone, and feeling of a exploitation film. From the script, to the acting, and the editing; this is a hilarious film inspired by the blaxploitation era. When you see all of the flaws in this film, you don't think it's a letdown or a betrayal of the filmmakers. You come to love it as it's own thing and it's not a flaw after the first few minutes. These flaws are the films biggest strengths because it is these flaws that make it so damn hysterical. This film took the best parts of blaxploitation and just made them so fuckin' fun to watch! This film is even better than the trailer and it lives up to the promise of just being a fun film to watch! This is one of the funniest films to come out all year. I certainly had a blast watchin this film! It's undeniably a high FULL-PRICE!!! Go check this out with some friends and have a blast! CAN YOU DIG IT?!

Where the Wild Things Are REVIEW!

If I was to describe this film in a word, I would have to say its "childhood." The film is Spike Jonze's way of telling kids that childhood is a great time, but sooner or later; we all have to grow up. The main point of this film is set behind the idea of what it means to grow up and what it means to take your own temperature as a child. Spike Jonze nails so many sentimental and emotional beats that it just becomes such an inspiring a great ride into the imagination of this little boy.

The story line was told well. I think Spike Jonze and Dave Eggers did a fantastic job adapting the very short book into a feature length kid's story. While there are some flaws, the positives of the screenplay supersede any of the inherent flaws the film has overall. The storyline is about childhood and the pain that comes with growing up and just realizing that it's time to move on and face yourself. It's a kid's movie, but it's a kid's movie of a different sort. This is the type of kid's movie that parents take their kids to if they want to find out the harsh realities in life and how we all have to grow up sooner or later. The great part about the film is how they channel Max's childhood feelings and thoughts into the creatures. You feel that these creatures are strong and dangerous, but gullible, naive, and with the thought process of a child. You know what, that's exactly what they are! Why would they believe that Max is a king? Because it is his imagination. These creatures want that person to look up to take care of them and nurture them...just like Max. The film delivers some of it's mature thematics in an eloquent and beautiful way that you feel this film is transcendent of the genre.

The acting of the film is quite strong. While in the opening act of the film you see exactly how out of control Max is and why he is feeling as he is, but you don't really fall entirely in love with him at the start. You're not supposed to. He is a normal kid that is not trying to impress anybody and he is doing his own thing, while others have moved on and grown up or just need to better their own lives. That comes in direct conflict with Max as he is comfortable being a young kid, not growing up, and causing trouble. This is directly communicated fantastically by newcomer Max Records. He delivers such a great performance as this out of control kid that you sense there is a change in him by the film's end. You start off not liking his character, but his character really does grow on you and you feel a connection to his character in this magical world. All of the other voice actors all do a great job with their roles. The casting of James Gandolfini as Carol is a brillant move on Spike Jonze's part. His voice puts you on an uneasy path because James' voice is menacing and it is everything it needs to be to convey the feeling that these creatures are fun, but he is unpredictable and dangerous. The parrallels between Max and Carol are just so brillantly told that you sense that Max is needing to change his own ways or else he'll stay being that wild and unpredictable in his home life. It's only until he gets a taste of what it feels like to deal with him that it starts to make Max do something he'd thought he'd do: Grow up. The acting was just great. Catherine Keener was great in this film in the small part she plays, but Mark Ruafflo is a bit wasted in this film. Overall, great acting in the film by both the humans and the creatures.

You can't talk about this film without mentioning the spectacular work of the creature effects. The creature facial work is done so well that the blend of CGI and practical effects become seamless. It works as a storytelling device and you don't feel these creatures are being held back by any means. These creatures look fantastic! The cinematography of the film also is amazing as well. The movie is so well composed that you sense that magic that is evident in each frame. It's just a stunning visual treat!

While I did like the film a lot, there are some flaws. The film tried a bit to hard to not talk down to kids to the point of it having a real crisis of identity. It doesn't want hold back mature themes, but the film carries a feeling of melancholy that you don't know what to make of it when the film's magical moments are over. The material covered seemed a bit too depressing and shoe horned in. Another flaw I found was that the middle of the film dragged for a bit too long and seemed as if it had nothing to do for a while. They are building this city...for what really? it seemed a bit like they ran out of ideas for Max and the wild things to do that the middle section of the film didn't live up to what the film had to offer with the first couple of acts, thankfully the last acts of the film pick it up. The film just seemed to be a bit hallow despite of what it tried to convey to the audience. It also seemed to be a children's movie, aimed at adults. It has a high nostalgic factor for adults that most don't know what to make of it. It's just a bit all over the map, but it didn't detract the film for myself.

Spike Jonze has captured what it means to have to come to that age where you know you are getting older and need to mature. He captures the spirit of the book effectively. His film is a beautifully told sentiment about growing up in a rough time. Most important of all, it's about how when we are in our most vulnerable, we turn to our own imagination to find solace. Overall, While not the movie we expected, it's still very enjoyable. it wasn't trying to conform to the formula of it being a kid's film, but it's transcendent of it's own genre. This is a dark and deeply emotional, but a bit hallow at the same time. This is a FULL-PRICE movie to me. This is a special film and I enjoyed it quite a bit!

A Serious Man REVIEW!

The Cohen brothers time and time again have managed to both make high caliber films as the classic Fargo (1996), The Big Lebowski (1999), and my personal Favorite: No Country For Old Men (2007). They have also managed to make films that are less than impressive with films like The Ladykillers (2004) and the "intolerable" Intolerable Cruelty (2003). But with this film, by the finale of the picture; I didn't know how to feel about it. I knew that I liked it, but I couldn't tell how much I liked it.

Before I go any further: This Film is VERY JEWISH! The basic premise of the film is about a Jewish father and husband, who is watching as his life goes down the drain. His marriage is falling apart, his relationship with his kids is questionable, and his brother won't stop loafing around the house. While the premise of the film is not something that is different, the structure of the film is very unique. The questions about what kind of film this is going to be is set up with a great opening sequence. This opening sequence establishes the vibe that film is going to be; which is a black comedy. While doing that is fine, I am guessing that some people aren't going to get that at first. The black comedy in this film is taken to a realm of little color. The story is so dark and deep to an extent that you can't help, but feel so very bad for the lead character. You just sit there for the runtime and watch how this man's life is truly going down the toilet. That is the whole point to this film. Without giving off too many spoilers, the whole arc of watching this man's life fall apart is paid off with a deep, heartwarming, and mature concept that you forgive the pain you underwent watching this film. That isn't to say the film is bad by any stretch. The story reaches a point that is heartbreaking and painful to watch, then it provides that little ray of hope for these characters that makes the experience payoff. The script in this film is excellent! The Cohens harken to the dry humor that they are well known for. It's dry humor, but you almost have to work hard to see past the grimness and the heartbreak of what the Larry character is going through, but there are some laughs to be had this film. It is structured well, but this is definitely another film in which the Cohens have definitely broken the rules of cinema 101.

The acting of the film is....well can you say apart from "It's the Cohen Brothers movie!" This acting on this film is great! Everyone has their moments! Fred Melamed as Sy Ableman definitely has a great and humorous part in this film. His scenes with the Larry character is just so uncomfortably hilarious to watch and Fred does a great job with that role. Richard Kind as Undle Arthur is funny in most of his scenes and you end up liking that character quite a bit. The one standout of this film has to be Michael Stuhlbarg as Larry Gopnik. He carries this film all-through and he delivers a subdued performance that allows you to read into his eyes. He is very introverted, but he delivers a lot to tell through his eyes. He delivers a pain and a likable quality at the same time in which you start off not liking this character and by the end of the picture, he wins you over. I definitely enjoyed watching Larry's arc of the picture the most and he delivers the standout performance! The cinematography of the film is very great as well. The Cohens are back with their regular cinematographer from No Country For Old Men: Roger Deakins. Deakins delivers a great visual and subdued style that works with the picture! The film is just really well shot and it works!

The negatives of the picture depends entirely on the audience. While I know that people love to be thrown curve balls in movies, the Cohens pull the rag from under you. The ending of the picture is definitely abrupt, but it's definitely going to be one thing the audience is going to be split on! While it works for the picture, many do argue that it should be clear as to what happens and it shouldn't be left to our imagination. I was split on it. I didn't want it to end like that, but I got exactly what the directors were trying to do with the film after I saw the film. If you take it, it can be good thing. A key theme in the film is that life sometimes has no answers and it pulls the rug from under you at the wrong time. The film's problem is that it's unclear if most audiences would go through with that again.

Overall, this film is a black comedy that is a surprise and a worthwhile check. I wasn't into the film when I started watching it, but the film won me over. I did get what the Cohens were trying to do and they definitely break the rules of Cinema, but I did like them all for it after the picture was done. The script is great, the cinematography is great, and the acting is good too. This is a FULL-PRICE movie! I dug it!

Till Next time take care guys!

Whip It REVIEW!!

In watching this film, It never occurred to me that this was Drew Barrymore's debut as a film director. She comes off as a pro with this film right from the start. The film is a great debut by Barrymore. I wasn't too interested in this film's subject matter, but the fact that Ellen Page was starring in this made me take a second look at it. I thought that the film could be good to ok, but I didn't expect to end up actually going for the ride and enjoying it.

The basic premise of the film is a girl coming of age tale. We have seen this story told a thousand times. Girl is an outcast, Girl finds passion, Parents don't like passion, and then you throw in alot of the cliche's of a coming of age story and you got this movie, but there are enough elements that are present in the picture that definitely make this one different. The subject matter of roller derbying is one that I thought was going to be a big leap of faith on the part of Drew Barrymore making this an interesting sport and she nails it. About 10 minutes into the movie, I saw that Roller Derbying really lent itself to being a very visual and an intense experience on film. It was awesome to see these sequences cut together. On the directing aspect of the film, Drew Barrymore comes out great and she proves she can direct.

The acting of the film is good. I thought that the team had their moments. It was great to see Zoe Bell again in a film. I thought that Kristen Wig was great in her role, and Juilette Lewis was great as the leader of the rival roller team, but definitely the stand-out of this film is Ellen Page. Ellen Page is what makes this film so watchable and she carries a lot of baggage on her shoulders throughout the picture. She delivers the wit and charming aspect from the Bliss character. You feel that throughout the film she is unsure of herself, until you see that strength emerge from her and she becomes even tougher and more vulnerable emotionally. Ellen Page is perfectly cast in this role. It isn't her playing a hippster on the par of Juno, but she is still a hippster, but more likable.

The technical aspects of this film from the editing and the pacing all work great. The film delivers that brutal and competitive nature of the skating arena and it works as a cinematic experience.

The one flaw to the film is that the script is very predictable. Of course there are some moments that are thrown in for good measure, but the film follows a lot of the cliche' moments from most coming of age stories about girls. By the time you get to the third act, you can predict most of the major beats and character choices. It's a complaint that drags the film and makes it lose a little bit of steam in the third act, but the last act of the film picks it up again and brings back some of the heart of the first two acts.

Overall, this film is a great coming of age tale and finding your passion. It's predictable: Yes. It is bad? Not by a stretch! I enjoyed this film quite a lot. Drew Barrymore definitely brings a heart to this film as the director as she shines both off camera and in front of the camera. Ellen Page gives a strong performance and her arc is fun to watch! I'd say this is a FULL-PRICE! Go check this out! A pleasant surprise and quite a touching film!

(500) Days of Summer REVIEW!

Easily one of the best and the smartest of all the films to come out all summer. Joseph Gordon-Levit and Zooey Dechanel have a unique chemistry that works. The structure of how the film is told is unique and hilarious! One moment you want to give Joseph the high five when things are looking up and then you find yourself laughing and feeling sorry for his character when you find out the future of what happens later in the film. Great storytelling. You have not seen a film with this story structure and as engaging as this one. As far as romantic summer comedies go, this is one of the gems of the summer and sadly an overlooked one. You can't go wrong with this film! This is a high FULL-PRICE! It is one of the best films of the summer! GO SEE IT!!

Inglorious Basterds REVIEW!

Quentin Tarantino has hit the nail on the head for what escapist cinema is. Instead of giving us the action flick that Tarantino gave us with Kill Bill, he gives us the art-house glimpse of what we all wished would have happened in World War II all of those years ago. The film is just entertaining and keeps you interested in the whole two and half hours.

The Plot of the film is already enough to be it in the exploitive cinema genre, but it isn't. It's about Americans that are dropped behind enemy lines and kill Nazis. What the film cleverly hides is that it's not just america that wants to kill Nazis, it's nearly everybody else as well. While we all may not be on the same team, we all share a common enemy at points in history. The film takes a much more subtler approach as to present this plot. The film is not based solely on the title characters of the Basterds, but on multiple story arcs. This film is much more in line with Pulp Fiction than it is with Kill Bill. When I say that it's much in line with Pulp Fiction, I mean that the plot is based on developing the characters so that you know why most of these characters are doing what they are doing. The Basterds aren't really given much screen-time, but by the end of the film we get how passionate they are about killing Nazis and the fact is that these jews are pissed as hell and they went to crack skulls and take names...or in this case scalps. We also view the film from the point of views The Basterds, of a Jewish woman who escapes her brush with death, a German colonel nicknamed "Jew Hunter" (fantastically played by Christoph Waltz),and a German Actress. That storylines is developed enough as the Basterds are except we feel a connection to what is happening to some of these side characters. We either love them or we love to hate them. While we aren't given any of these characters whole live stories, we know full and well what they are about. This is a testament to why Tarantino is such a great storyteller and why we all love him for not presenting us with all of this unnecessary backstory that could have been used to beat us over the head with.

The Acting of the film is definitely great! Brad Pitt is hilarious as Lt. Aldo Raine. Brad Pitt is spot on with this character and definitely rises to the occasion again with Tarantino at the helm. Melanie Laurent is great as the Jewish woman Shosanna Greyfus and she proves more of the emotional thrust of the picture with her story-arc. When we see all of the crazy things that goes on with the other story arcs, her story is the one we can all gravitate towards to provide the beat that grounds the seriousness of the picture. When this arc is closed we see how she came to that point and it doesn't feel like a cheat for this type of picture. As great as Melanie Laurent's performance was, the surprise and one of the standouts of the picture is Christoph Waltz performance as Col. Hans Landa. What made this character so effective is that this character is shades of grey throughout the picture and he steals the screen, whenever he is on. His character is the one character that poses the biggest threat to the Basterds and his portrayal makes his character so rich, textured, and fascinating to watch. His viewpoints on what he is doing is a unique in a way we have not seen before and it definitely one of those signature Tarantino roles. The great thing about the acting of the picture is that they all are played right. Nobody feels out of place and everybody is there to serve a part of the story.

The direction of the film is Masterful. Tarantino doesn't talk down to the plot of the film and he sticks to a tone all the way through. This film is very talkative and is dialogue focused. The one aspect that will catch many off guard is one of the strongest things it has going for it: the film is very subtitle heavy. About most of the film is told in a different language, which helps maintain the tone and reality of this picture. What makes this film different from the other World War II films of late is that these characters don't overcome their cultural and language barriers. If they are french, they speak french, and if they are dumb americans that don't know how to speak German, they don't. What sets this apart from films such as last year's Valkyrie was in the fact that film decided to forget that germans are germans and have everybody speak in a perfect english accent, which undercut the picture because we were supposed to get that these Nazi's were trying to right wrongs and we got Tom Cruise trying to assassinate Hitler. This film uses the language barriers to it's advantage and it creates a whole different type of suspense building that is credible and effective in one of the opening scenes of the film. It's almost as if Tarantino saw that Hollywood was too concerned with entertaining and getting to the audience to the point that it undercut the film's message and now he decides to tell what would have happened if these characters existed in our world and he makes them very believable. Not everybody knows french or german and Tarantino is fully aware of this fact and he uses it to his advantage. The Direction is pretty much flawless even for it being a foreign spoken film, it feels very real and Tarantino nails it!

While a lot of the people are going to have a problem with what this film does with Historical events, Tarantino provides an entertaining dive into the alternate world of the Basterds. The ending will definitely be something people are going to be talking about and it doesn't fail to entertain. What Tarantino also does with the picture is take that idea of "wouldn't it have been great if we saw this happen to Nazis?" and he taps into the fact that we would have all like to have seen Hitler pitted against a ruthless group like the Basterds. He taps into that complicit nature in all of us to see someone get exactly what they deserved, and he also tapped into the fact that most of these Nazi's were people and that they are as flawed as we are, but he definitely makes the nazis the antagonists of the picture. We all had a common enemy and we are all similar in our goals despite what side of the world we are from. This films goes to show that Quentin Tarantino is a much smarter writer and storyteller when he devides to not give us a by the numbers war-film and he surprises us with this brilliant piece of Kosher Porn!

I'd say this is a definite Full-Price!!! It is one of the best things Tarantino has done in years.

District 9 REVIEW!

Oh man. None of you folks out there realize the surprise your in for when you check out Niell Blomkamp. When I first saw the trailer for this film, I thought "This is Peter Jackson and Niell Blomkamp's replacement for the HALO film falling apart." This is essentially what this is, but it is something that is in every sense different and stronger because of it. First off, Nobody is prepared for this film. This film completely wasn't what I was expecting and it was better than I could have thought it was going to be. This film is one deep and intelligent science fiction film. I have heard that this film is being touted as one of those films that will stand the test of time and is going to be that one film that will be compared to along the lines of such sci-fi classics as John Carpenter's The Thing and James Cameron's Aliens. After seeing the picture, does it stand up? Does it live up to the small online hype it has had? I'd say it trumps that expectation and Neil Blomkamp delivers a film that says "Halo, hold on! I'm Still watching District 9 here!" Does it stand to be the sci-fi classic that it deserves to be? Only Time will tell.

The Plot of the film is very original. You have not seen a an alien invasion story treated in this particular fashion. I can't say too much about this film without spoiling it. The trailers and TV spots tell you nothing about the conflict of the film whatsoever, but that is why this film is so effective. The film takes a slow-burn approach to the opening acts of the film. The film opens up and it plants images in your head that resemble what the Africans have been dealing with for decades with the apartheid. The film utterly shocks you into thinking that nothing really has changed and that it is basically what we humans have been dealing with and not even an alien invasion will change what we all are still struggling with in today's world. At it's core, the film is about putting aside our differences and coming together. While without giving too many spoilers to the film, the film clearly is made by an intelligent filmmaker in Niell Bloomkemp. Much of the credit of this film has to go to Neill for creating such an original story-line and experience with this film that it doesn't really feel like a wash of everything that had been done before. You have not seen aliens of this type. These aliens are essentially like "us" if we landed and were stranded on a far-away planet. There are so many brilliantly presented allegories to some of our current world problem that this film nails and doesn't beat you over the head with. You can clearly tell Bloomkemp's heart and soul went into this screenplay as he presents all the allegories with such an originality that you just can't take your eyes off the screen. I felt I wasn't being preached about those aspects and this film is at a it's heart a thinking film, but it does deliver on the action sequences with some inventive weaponry and a satisfying story arc for the lead protagonists of the picture. The best part about this movie is that the big twist isn't given away in any of the trailers and that works to the film's advantage because you have no idea what you are in for. If I was to sum this picture up: i'd say it's Starship Troopers, Cloverfield, and City of God kinda rolled up into one in a interesting style.

The cinematography of the picture is a hybrid of both documentary style and a traditional editing style as well. But the Documentary style works in conjunction with the rest of the picture and it doesn't feel out of place. The creature effects in the film were great! I was surprised that this was a relatively low-budget picture and the quality from the special effects that they managed to get out of the picture was just above par and it delivered a visceral experience. This film is definitely an R-Rated film and there is a lot of gore in the picture without it being too much or distracting. It is necessary to the story and it needs to be there to show the raw brutality of this universe. The ending of the picture leaves so many possibilities and is the perfect ending to this picture.

While this film definitely impressed me, avoided many of the potholes of the genre and exceeded my expectation, it isn't going to be a film for everyone. Like Cloverfield before it, it will have some people that won't get it and won't go along with the gimmick. That's what makes this film so special is that it is for all intents and purposes a studio film, but isn't. It is much smarter and deeper than that.

Overall, this is definitely another one of the biggest surprises of the summer. It does show that Neill Bloomkemp has the ability to make a film on a epic scale, with a smaller budget and deliver an extraordinary and original cinematic experience. This film is definitely a FULL-PRICE! I can't recommend this one enough! A film to remember and can stand a chance to be a classic. We have to thank Peter Jackson for giving Neill the chance to shine with this modern sci-fi classic!

Be sure to check out the Original Short film Alive in Joburg that Inspired this film!

Take care Guys!!!

FUNNY PEOPLE Review!!

The Plot: This movie was spot on about what it has to say to be a comedian and how most of the great jokes that have come out of life are usually the horrible things that happen to us. The film sets up the fact that Sandler's character is a secluded comedian that is dying from a disease and when he gets wind of his impending death, he has nobody close to him to tell. This movie is about the bad mistakes that one goes through in life and what that means for you in the end. The main theme of this movie is what happens when life doesn't go exactly your way and what that means when you know exactly where you are supposed to go and you go in a completely different direction and about how we lie to ourselves to make our lives better. Director Judd Apatow nails so many different aspects of what it is to live in the life of an entertainer whose worse moments are the one the audience pays to hear about. He plays on the fact that both Ira and George are really two sides of the same coin and they parallel each other so well in terms of what Ira can become and what George used to be as a struggling comedian. The script also manages to create characters that are dimensional. The film knows what it wants to be and it achieves that so brilliantly. The script is written well to where we cringe at moments where these characters just have no spark in their comedy routines and we can't help but laugh along with the audience at the jokes that are working. It has you rooting for the characters when they crawl their way of the crap situation that they are in and just hate, but understand them at the points where they become competitive and cutthroat in getting their names out there. How it is in the real world. Everybody is waiting for the moment to play their card. When it comes they'll take it, but what are the ramifications of doing so. That is not to say that this film ain't funny. The jokes are almost kinda of incidental to the plot. The real funny bits comes from the more depressing moments of the film, but that is the point to it where our worst moments are our funny bits and we take those shitty moments and try to make people smile with them. But this film is definitely funny, but its not the typical Judd Apatow film. It also is funny in the fact that they are congruent with the real world that you get one of the characters going to see a movie that just opened up in theaters a few weeks ago, and making jokes about how Seth Rogen lost too much weight and needs to gain it back to be funny. It had me chuckle a few times at those moments when it realized there is a real world. It leaps beyond being a comedy and actually tells an engaging and heartfelt story about a guy who comes to a point where he realizes where he is going to end up and realizing he has nothing. The film is quite depressing at times, but that is exactly the intention so that we come to care for each of these characters and Apatow nails it! Overall, a great script and the ending is great and sentimental.

The Acting: The acting in this film is very subdued and not as over the top as some of the other Apatow films. This isn't 40 Year Old Virgin or Knocked Up, but it isn't trying to be or outdo them. It is more comparable to Punch Drunk Love or Spanglish. This is a more introverted, deeper, and darker story. With that said, all the performances are pretty much excellent. The standouts in this film has to be Adam Sandler and Seth Rogen. The both play their parts very subtly and they aren't trying to outdo each other. They complement each other and they work as a duo in this film. I also liked how Apatow was able to reign in Sandler from being "Adam Sandler" and just have him give a strong dramatic and comedic performance. Seth Rogen was also great and he plays everything a bit more straighter than any of his previous films and he is a idiot like the rest of us, but that is why he works so well in this film. He doesn't know where to start his career off as a comedian, and he isn't funny. The writing for his character shows an arc that is very satisfying by the end of the picture. The performance by Leslie Mann was also effective and I did enjoy watching the scenes between her and Sandler as they added a lot of depth to the narrative and punctuates the mains points of the film so well. The one actor that really surprised me was the Eric Bana character. Without giving too much away, you kinda are lend to not like this cat from the ads and even in the film, but when you are introduced to this character, you would gladly have a beer with this guy because he is a good dad. If he is a good husband, I'll leave that to you to find out. Overall, great cast with appearances by famous comedians and the typical Apatow crew all shine in this film at various points.

The Negatives...

Well, there isn't much I have to say against the film except that the film had a rough start. The film felt as if there was an uncertainty of tone and it felt as if it took awhile to find itself, but that is a minor quibble and that went away fast. I just enjoyed the film, but it does run a bit long at times. Some of the scenes could have been trimmed without hurting the film, but its just a case of tightening the film up.

Overall, I enjoyed the hell out of this film and this isn't 40 Year Old Virgin or Knocked Up, this is something completely different. It is a very relatable story and it is effectively maybe Judd Apatow's strongest piece of writing thus far as it doesn't rely on the jokes as his other films do. I'd give it a FULL-PRICE! I enjoyed the hell out of this film!

Till next time keep the laughs coming! :P

Orphan REVIEW!!

Before seeing this film, This trailers gave off the impression that this was going to be a film that was very much in the same vein as the classic horror film The Omen. It also seemed to me like a film that was destined to let me have a great first half only to deliver a lackluster 90's style plot twist that negates the whole point of the first two acts. I went into this with an open mind and I decided to give this movie a shot. To which, I can safely say I am glad I did.

Ok this film completely surprised the hell out of me. Without giving away any spoilers of the film, this film established within the opening that even though they are treading the old and cliche' plot device that seemingly is taken straight out of a film such as The Omen, this film is going to present a different angle to the whole kid killer story. This film knows what it is, and it knows what it wants to be. It is also aware of the fact that this is a child murderer movie and it uses that knowledge to it's advantage. You can tell that the filmmakers all saw films such as The Omen in which the antagonist is a child and is seemingly in control of the situation. It knows that audiences out there have seen films such as The Omen or The Good Son. Whenever the film seems to be heading into cliche' territory it redeems itself in surprising ways. What this film does so effectively and brilliantly is play on the fact that this is a kid killer story and they use that to it's advantage. As I was watching the film, I got more and more tense especially in the first acts where you realize that kids are both in danger and committing the crimes. These filmmakers are aware of the fact that children doing these heinous and evil things is much more disturbing to an audience than if an adult was doing it. The filmmakers understand that the best angle to get through and convey these intense feelings of terror and suspense to the audience is to put the kids in dangerous and believable situations. This film nails it!

The opening act of the film is rather predictable to say the least, but after an OK first act, it redeems itself and quickly gets into full swing. This film is the type that as the plot keeps progressing, it gets better! In the second half of the film it becomes an engaging mystery. Not in the same vein as a film like The Omen which relies heavily on fantasy biblical elements or how The Good Son revolved around an inexplainable killer mentality, the plot in this film is very believable. It doesn't feel like a cheat when you get to the last act of the picture. They also have moments that nearly parody those classic Kid killer movies with the characters having some beats that are taken from those film, but twisting them in a way you haven't seen before.

What this film also does effectively is create characters that are dimensional. These characters are all flawed in some way and they are all using each other to get that sense of happiness, but that becomes their downfall. The Characters of Kate and Peter Coleman have some dimensionality to them that shows they are flawed, but they are trying their best to keep the family together despite the situations that come about. They don't seem like the typical parental figure that doesn't see their flaws in the family, but you can't help but understand why they are in the situation they are and what is going through their heads. With that said, I was kind of let down by their logic for wanting to adopt. It seems a bit easy, but it went away quickly and it's a very small complaint. This film gets you to care for the characters more than your typical suspense thriller. That's what makes Kate's character so good in that you understand she is right in her understanding what is going on around her and putting the pieces together, but she's in a real deep hole that is tough to climb out of with those around her. You can't help applaud when she tries to not let her family become next in line to this child antagonist.

The standout in this film without a doubt is Isabelle Fuhrman as Esther. She gives about as creepy a performance as you can get in these child murderer story. At the beginning of the film, she does something that the audience kind of isn't expecting...she actually wins us over, but you still get the hint that there's something not totally right about this one. The opening act of the film show that she can be a lovable child and that you don't really see a logical progression as to why this child goes on to do what she does. She is also not the typical child murderer who kills simply because of the fact she enjoys killing. You get the impression that she is doing it on a "Either-it's-me-and-you" basis and definitely chooses the latter. Her progression in the film doesn't seem like a cheat and as she tears the family apart and you see how manipulative she can get, you sense that she's in full-control of the situation. That creates an effective villain and by the end of the third act, she has you in her grim and all bets are off by that point in the film. That is a true sign of an effectively scary and unpredictable character.

Onto the flaws of the film. While I did enjoy this film, this film maybe too much for audiences to take. Because it is so tense and you understand that children's lives are at risk, it almost becomes too much to a point. While I thought this worked to the film's advantage and it certainly had an impact on myself, I would say that there's still that audience that is uncomfortable with seeing children in danger this way. But that's merely a case of knowing what your in for and to go along with it.

Overall, I thought this film was a big surprise! I wasn't expecting this film at all. It's definitely an entertaining one and effective thriller at that. It didn't leave me feeling betrayed and it kept the intensity all throughout. The film has some creepy and uncomfortable moments that are played brilliantly with the knowledge that this film is in familiar territory. It does not feel intimidated by the films that have come before it, it merely knows what it wants to be and knows of a good angle to give that thrill to audiences. I'd say that for the film it is and you know what you are in for when you see this, this is worthwhile and entertaining. I'd never thought I'd say this, but it's a FULL-PRICE! I enjoyed the hell out of it!

Still laughing and still on about THE HANGOVER! ;D

I enjoyed the hell out of this film! This is about a solid of a comedy as I have seen in a while. This is definitely the Todd Phillips we have been craving for since he did Old School. Like that film as well this is pretty much about guys who decide to have a guy's ramp, and that goes horribly wrong. This film is hilariously paced to where as each revelation is uncovered, you get the sense that these guys went through too much too quickly. Although highly implausible, it's a comedy and this very much plays to the points where the plot becomes nearly impossible, but its pretty damn hilarious. What this film also does is create characters that we can easily relate to or know from our lives. 

The plot is very much a mystery/comedy. They are trying to find that one member of the group that is getting married and they are busting their balls trying to find this guy. That is the whole point to this film is that by the beginning of the last act, all bets are off and you don't know how this could possibly end. It was enjoyable to have these moments play out for the laughs. The actors are all perfectly cast as well. I liked Bradley Cooper's character in the film, Ed Helms is pretty naive and hilarious at that too, but the real standout of the film has to be Zack Galifianakis. It's funny because last year Zack was in a little film called WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS (2008) and the only laugh I got out of that piece of FOX mediocrity was when Zack Galifianakis appeared on screen for those 2 minutes, and this film is definitely his calling card because he just steals every scene he is in and makes everything that much more uncomfortable and hilarious! He's such a great comedian and it's definitely good to see him shine in a film like this because he rightly deserves so. This is definitely a Todd Phillips film. Peppered throughout the film is some great comedians and cameos that you'll just love. 

Overall, this is definitely going to be a classic in every sense! This is very much a film by people who have clearly been on this type of night out and they are willing to bring you along on this crazy ass trip, and if you take it you'll have a great time. This film as any great night out ends with a few horrific revelations and laughs with your buddies!

With that said...

HIGH FULL PRICE!!! GO SEE IT NOW AND SEE IT WITH SOME BUDDIES...

and a few drinks on top of that won't hurt neither!...Until...

The hangover starts up. Ha ha ha ha

Enjoy the Flick guys!

Till next time, here's another two cents!

Drag Me To Hell Mr. Riami!!!!

Dear Mr. Sam Riami:

Thank You for giving us yet another great hard nipple in the rain sequence!

With that said...

Thanks for coming back to your horror roots for another fun time at the movies! 

This film is just a really fun time at the movies! This film is meant to be over the top and a thrill ride and Riami delivers, and beat for beat this works as well as his older forays into the horror genre. There is a nice blend of obesity and comedy with some truly scary imagery in this film. The film is essentially Riami's love letter to his Evil Dead and horror fans and it works to where you don't have to be a lover of those films to appreciate the film he's given us here. Even anybody who is a fan of the Spider-Man films can love this film (as I was, because I got fish-hooked into the Evil Dead series after seeing the Spider-Man films) but Sam is back in the best way. Say what you will about Spider-Man 3 (2007) and as much as I actually enjoyed the film, you can tell Riami's heart was definitely into this film every step of the way. The basic premise is a young girl that gets cursed by an ol' ass hag of a gypsy and she needs to find a way to break the curse. Simple, but effectively hilarious and over the top. I really dug what Riami was going for in this film as he does provide some gag inducing moments in the film (I say it in the best possible way) with good horror moments. Alison Lohman does a suitable job in this picture and I did like her arc as a character and the ultimate conclusion that this film comes to is suitable and it does fit. I remember hearing about how Ellen Page was cast in the role Alison ended up playing, and was really excited because I do like Ellen Page's work, but Alison Lohman really does work well in the picture. I liked Lohman in the role. You can't not talk about the cast without mentioning Lorna Raver as Mrs. Ganush as she is freakin creepy as all hell and the moment she appears onscreen she does give the sense that you don't want to mess with this ol' woman! She does a fantastic job in the role and she makes it her own. The scenes between her and Alison in the very beginning is sure to draw applause, laughs, and gags! Its all so deliciously good! The plot has a lot to love about it. It is not being serious in the least. It is simply going to tell a story and just deal with it. I know some people gagged at the fact this was PG-13, it makes no difference whatsoever! This is Riami, and he is doing what he loves and if you're willing to go for the ride, you'll have a lot of fun with this film! I enjoyed the "hell" out of this film! I'd say a definite FULL-PRICE!!! Go see it with a couple of friends and with some alcoholic beverages in hand because I can't morally endorse drug use. Fun time at the movies! Go see it!!! 

Till next time! Here's my two cents!

UP review!

Wow! Within the first 10 minutes of the film, I got more story than most of the films I have seen so far this year! I loved the Hell out of this film. This is high "up" there with the best pixar films since Finding Nemo. Its personally better than Wall-E because you fall in love with the character of Carl very early on and you love this mean old man. This film is just a great Exercise in storytelling. The film doesn't prepare you for the emotional punch that this film hits you with time and time again. This is a film that is so radically different than any animated film you have seen. I love the direction that Pixar is taking with their films since the Incredibles by making their films much more mature, but having enough visual and storytelling interest that will draw the younger audiences. This film just hits you so hard emotionally and comically that you are just going to love the hell out of this film. The story is stunningly emotional and its above all a great kid's and adventure film. The animation is great and the 3D was cool. The voice acting works. Talking about the voice acting, you can't not talk about the talking dogs. The talking dogs are so damn funny and they make the talking dog idea work in a way we have never seen before. Dug is obviously one of the best characters of the film and you can't help but easily fall in love with a character in this film. I also love that there is not a single pop culture reference in the whole film and the last 45 minutes are fantastic! Overall, this is one of the best pixar films of all time. The emotional impact is amazingly delivered. I love the overall message of the film! It's such a fantastic piece of film that it's got "classic" written all over it! I say it's a HIGH FULL-PRICE!! GO SEE THIS FILM! 2D or 3D the film is fantastic, hilarious, and emotional! This is one of the best films of 2009 and it's about time for an animated film to win best picture, thats how great this story is!