Posts Tagged movie review
X-Men: First Class movie review
Posted by Purely.. Kay in Theater on June 5, 2011
I got a chance to watch the movie “X-Men: First Class”; read on to see what I thought of it. “X-Men: First Class” is a prequel that takes places in 1963. Charles Xavier starts up a school and later a team, for humans with superhuman abilities. Among them is Erik Lensherr, his best friend… and future archenemy.
As far as prequels go, in my opinion, this was one of the best I’ve watched in a long time. The film’s director, producers, and writers really took the time to explain each character in a non-tedious way; that didn’t involve you being bored the entire time. If you’ve watched the other ‘X-Men’ movies from this franchise, you might think you know all of the main characters and what drives them. But with this movie, I got to really understand what made everyone become who they are. What I like about this film is that it isn’t just full of background information; there’s a really good storyline, nice action sequences, and pretty good animation that draws you into the film. I really must admit, I enjoyed watching this.. It gave me a new perspective on the franchise and the characters as a whole. So is it kid friendly? In my opinion, yes it is. There really isn’t a lot of violence (some scenes are, but most scenes aren’t), so this would be a nice family movie.. but again you’re the parent and it’s your choice.
The acting was also good and there were interesting up and coming actors/actresses in this film as well. James McAvoy who plays ‘Charles Xavier’ really did a great job. Not many people can top the iconic Patrick Stewart in this role, but McAvoy held his own. Michael Fassbender who plays ‘Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto’ also did a great job playing this determined character. Kevin Bacon was also in this film (I was surprised to see him in this); he plays ‘Sebastian Shaw’ and did an ‘okay’ job. Rose Byrne who plays ‘Moira MacTaggert’ and January Jones who plays ‘Emma Frost’, both acted very well. And the newcomers: Jennifer Lawrence who plays ‘Raven/Mystique’, Zoë Kravitz who plays ‘Angel Salvadore’, Nicholas Hoult who plays ‘Hank McCoy/Beast’, Edi Gathegi who plays ‘Armando Muñoz/Darwin’, Lucas Till who plays ‘Alex Summers/Havok‘, and Caleb Landry Jones who plays ‘Sean Cassidy/Banshee’ all did a really great job.
If you’re looking for a good film to take your mind off of life for a while OR if you just love the ‘X-Men’ series, then I would recommend you see this movie. Sure it’s a prequel, but this prequel comes equipped with a pretty good storyline, background information that isn’t boring (and actually makes sense), and the surprise of seeing one current X-Men featured. This film really shocked me.. in a good way. I give this movie a 7 ½ out of 10. After this film ended, I wondered if Marvel would add more to this prequel series. I guess we’ll have to wait and see. And the summer blockbuster movies continue..
Thor movie review
Posted by Purely.. Kay in Theater on May 8, 2011
After viewing a bad movie (Something Borrowed), I thought I’d treat myself and watch the film “Thor”. And what a treat it was. “Thor” is about a powerful but arrogant warrior Thor that’s cast out of the fantastic realm of Asgard and sent to live amongst humans on Earth, where he soon becomes one of their finest defenders.
Even though a small amount of people expressed their dislike for the film, I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed it. This was a perfect introduction to the character “Thor”, who will also be a part of the epic movie production “The Avengers”. I’ve never read any of the ‘Thor’ comic books, so I can’t tell you if this is an accurate depiction. But, I can tell you this film showcases action when it needs it, suspense when it calls for it, a great twist, and a little bit of romance. The visual producers really did a good job of making the world ‘Asgard’ seem realistic and regal without overdoing it with visual effects. And the director, to me, focused in on what the movie-goer needed to see without providing unnecessary background information. The writers also included a bit of comic relief to this film, which actually worked. With all the twist and turns, action sequences, and giant blue people who looked weird, I couldn’t help but enjoy this film. This movie, to me, is also kid safe. As long as you’re ready to maybe answer questions about magic or science, then you should be fine.
The acting in this film was also very good. Chris Hemsworth who plays “Thor” really surprised me. I didn’t think he was going to do well, but he was excellent at showcasing what his character was feeling in every scene. Natalie Portman who plays “Jane Foster”, acted in her usual style; she did alright. Kat Dennings who plays “Darcy” brought some comic relief to the film and acted well. Tom Hiddleston who plays “Loki”, also did well. Idris Elba who plays “Heimdall” acted brilliantly in this film. Even though some scrutinized filmmakers for adding a ‘black man’ in this role (don’t get me started on some people’s dumbness), I think he knocked it out of the park. And let’s not forget the iconic Anthony Hopkins who plays “Odin”; he acted exceptionally of course.
I have to say, I really enjoyed this film. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I got a nice surprise. With this movie you can expect well orchestrated fight scenes, a shocking twist, and great characters played by really good actors/actresses. It wasn’t the worst, it wasn’t the very best, but it WAS a good and solid film. I give this movie a 7 out of 10. It was worth the money to see but it’s also worth watching it on Netflix or Blu ray/DVD as well; up to you. And ladies more eye candy for ya 
Fast Five movie review
Posted by Purely.. Kay in Theater on April 30, 2011
I got to watch the much-anticipated movie of ‘The Fast and The Furious’ franchise, “Fast Five”. So what did I think of it? (smiles). “Fast Five” is about Dominic and his crew being on the wrong side of the law once again and now must go up against a ruthless drug lord and a relentless federal agent.
The director and the producers smoothly begin the film, where the last movie ends (so it makes sense if you saw the last movie). I believe by doing this, the film team kept you interested (by not having the movie-goer piece together facts to get the storyline) and allowed you to enjoy the movie. If you don’t like action movies, this film isn’t for you! But if you love non-stop action from beginning to end, then go see this! The first ten minutes of this film is filled with action, which causes an interesting chain of events. Old characters return, a new potential character is formed by two main characters, and the beauty of a 10 second car is back. The story is similar, to the first film of this franchise, but it’s also different and new. The chemistry between Vin Diesel and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is exceptional. Their ‘battle’ scenes are well choreographed and successfully make this film more interesting than any other. This movie was exciting, comical, and might be the best film from ‘The Fast and The Furious’ franchise. I wouldn’t recommend this movie for children under the age of 17. Maybe I was raised old-fashioned, but again as I always say, use your own judgment. You’re the parent.
The acting was good; but I will admit there was more act(ion) then act(ing), but I didn’t seem to mind. Vin Diesel, who reprised his role as ‘Dominic Toretto’, acted well in this film. Even though his acting and character was the same, he brought stability to the role and showcased how much his character has grown. Paul Walker who plays ‘Brian O’Conner’, and Jordana Brewster who plays ’Mia Toretto’, acted well and had really great chemistry. The four funniest characters, to me, where: Tyrese Gibson who came back as ‘Roman’, Chris ‘Ludacris’ Bridges who played ‘Tej’ once again, Tego Calderon who plays ‘Leo’, and Don Omar who plays ‘Santos’. These guys brought the comic relief and I enjoyed every minute of it. Sung Kang who reprised his role as ‘Han’ and Gal Gadot who once again played ‘Gisele’ also acted well. And let’s not forget Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson who plays a federal agent named ‘Hobbs’, who also acted well in this film.
Whether this movie seemed realistic or not, it was worth watching to me. No, you probably won’t see any of these actors/actresses win golden statues for their roles in this movie; but it was still a good film that helped me forget life’s troubles for a while. Honestly, I would pay to see this film again. I give this movie a strong 8 ½ out of 10. More acting would’ve given this film a 9. Mostly every man would love the cars in this movie. And ladies, do yourself a favor and go see the deliciousness that is Vin Diesel and The Rock, you’ll thank me later (smiles). And don’t forget to stay and watch the credits after the movie
UPDATE: Vin Diesel and series producer Neal H. Moritz are already developing the sixth film Fast & Furious 6. In a radio interview on 26 April, 2011 for RPR.1 (Rhineland-Pfalz Radio One), Vin Diesel mentioned that scenes from the sixth movie will take place on the German Autobahn and seventh and final film takes place somewhere else (provided by Wikipedia).
Arthur movie review
Posted by Purely.. Kay in Theater on April 11, 2011
I ended up watching the movie “Arthur”, and surprisingly it wasn’t that bad. “Arthur” is about a drunken playboy that stands to lose a wealthy inheritance when he falls for a woman his family doesn’t like.
I remember watching the original “Arthur”, starring Dudley Moore, when I was little and thought it was an ‘alright’ film. So when I decided to watch this version, I didn’t expect much. The beginning of this movie plays out like the old “Arthur” with dry humor jokes that were okay, but not enough to keep you interested. And then something happens midway of the film. The acting got better and the storyline finally distanced itself from the original “Arthur” in a good way. I can honestly tell you I don’t know what happened; it was like watching paint dry then out of nowhere it becomes a famed Picasso piece right before your eyes. If any movie gets the award for turning it all around, it’s this one. This is a kid friendly film, but some scenes do include suggestive language and some partial nudity. Parents, use your own judgment when deciding (but it really isn’t bad compared to most movies out).
The acting was better than I expected. Russell Brand, who plays “Arthur”, acts very well in this film. Who knew Russell had the ability to act ‘somewhat’ seriously and pull it off. I undervalued his acting a bit and I admit it. One of my favorite ladies Helen Mirren, who plays “Hobson”, brought her incredible acting skills to this movie and did well as always. Greta Gerwig, who plays “Naomi”, also did a very good job acting alongside of Russell Brand. Jennifer Garner, who plays “Susan”, didn’t woo me in this film. I don’t know if it was her acting or the fact that she played her part so well that made me not like her in this film. Luis Guzmán who plays “Bitterman” and Geraldine James who plays “Vivienne”, did a great job in their roles; and Nick Nolte who plays “Burt Johnson”, (yes, he’s in this film) did an ‘okay’ job.
Overall, this movie surprised me A LOT. Russell Brand, Helen Mirren, Greta Gerwig, Geraldine James, and Luis Guzmán really made this movie what it was. And I must commend the writers for the storyline. This movie, again, was a little different from the original “Arthur”, but it made a lot more sense, it dealt with a real problem that people have today, and each scenic scene was an authentic look at New York neighborhoods today. I think I would have loved this movie IF the beginning was better; but I got the treat of my life midway till the end of the film. I give this movie a strong 7 out of 10. Should you go see it? That’s up to you. It would be a great date night movie or a great Netflix movie as well. Nice job Russell Brand!
Limitless movie review
Posted by Purely.. Kay in Theater on April 5, 2011
I finally watched Limitless, and I have to admit I expected more. “Limitless” is about a writer who discovers a top-secret drug which bestows him with super human abilities.
I know I’m a little behind on this review, but I thought I’d post it anyway. Where do I begin explaining where this movie went wrong. Let’s start with the storyline. The storyline was mediocre for lack of a better word. Although Bradley’s character was becoming a “better version of himself” with this pill, the storyline left you unclear on what was really happening until the end of the film. I began coaching myself by saying “This movie will get better. This movie has to get better”. It was like believing in the little engine that could all over again. But for me, it really never happened. The story did eventually explain some things to you but by that time, for me, it was already too late. I was disinterested, uninvolved, and felt this wasn’t what I thought it would be. If you’re thinking of taking your children to watch this, I’d think again. The tone of this movie is all over the place and not to mention it would be a waste of money to even attempt to do so.
So let’s focus on the acting. Bradley Cooper played the character “Eddie Morra”, a struggling writer who just needed a break in life. I’m not sure if it was Bradley’s acting or the depiction of his character that left a bad taste in my mouth. I think, I just didn’t like Bradley’s acting in this film. I was actually shocked I felt that way. Robert DeNiero, who played “Carl Van Loon”, brought his iconic acting abilities to a role he’s played before. But I still love watching him act. And Abbie Cornish who plays Bradley’s love interest “Lindy”, was alright in this film. I haven’t followed her acting career but I liked the action sequence she was in, in this movie.
I wouldn’t recommend this movie to anyone. Why? This was a drama that wasn’t dramatic, the acting was so-so, and the storyline lacked. IF it would’ve been written better, I believe it would’ve been a much better film. The only good thing about this movie was the last 5 minutes. The last 5 minutes of this film were unexpected, engaging, and exciting. I’m not sure if someone else wrote it and added it in but it grabbed my attention and made me upset because that’s what I expected to see. I will this movie a 5 out of 10. I expected more; but I’m still unsure who I expected more from: The storyline or Bradley Cooper. In my opinion, watch this at your own risk. It can be a hit or a miss.
The Lincoln Lawyer movie review
Posted by Purely.. Kay in Theater on March 29, 2011
This weekend, I got the chance to watch “The Lincoln Lawyer”. I was interested in this movie, ever since I featured the trailer here and I have to say I enjoyed its intrigue. “The Lincoln Lawyer” is about a brilliant defense lawyer that conducts business from the back of his Lincoln town car while representing a high-profile client in Beverly Hills. This movie is also based off of Michael Connelly’s book.
This film was very well written in my opinion. It brought me back to when movies were well scripted and made you feel like you were apart of the characters lives, only to shockingly surprise you with the ending. That was this movie. The beginning starts off mild with some information on how Matthew McConaughey’s character conducts his law practice out of his classic Lincoln town car. The car itself goes with the bad ass, I’m no fool persona that Matthew’s character displays throughout the film. This movie isn’t full action or violence; but it’s definitely a modern-day drama (with a lot of twist) that will keep you interested and wanting to know who will make the next move. Again there isn’t a lot of graphic violence, but I’m not sure I would recommend this movie for kids because of the movies tone. As a parent, that would have to be your call.
I can’t say enough great things about Matthew McConaughey’s performance playing ‘Mick Haller’. Matthew, to me, acted wonderfully in this film and the character was definitely well written, interesting, and overall a cool ass lawyer. Another actress I haven’t seen in a while was Marisa Tomei who plays ‘Maggie McPherson’, ‘Mick’s’ ex-wife and prosecutor for the state. Marisa also acted well in this movie and the chemistry between her and Matthew was great to watch. Ryan Phillippe, who plays ‘Louis Roulet’, also displayed good acting in this film. To me, his character was similar to other characters he’s played before but he played this character well. Other great actors that were superb in this movie were William H. Macy, John Leguizamo, and Josh Lucas. I simply love Josh Lucas but his character ‘Ted Minton’ got on my nerves. I think that’s because I prefer his character in “Sweet Home Alabama” (laughs).
Overall, this movie had a stellar cast of great actors/actresses; a great storyline, a wonderful director, and a nice twist at the end that will make you think “I had no idea that was going to happen”. This movie is definitely like a well-played chess game; you think you know what will happen but in the end you don’t and that’s how I like my movies. Do I recommend this movie? Yes. But if you don’t like drama movies that will make you think, then I wouldn’t see this. It’s not a “who done it” film because you know who did it (laughs); it’s more of a movie that challenges the theory of what really happened, what will happen, and what’s your next move. I give this movie a 8 out of 10. And ladies, Matthew definitely looks good in this. Not bad eye candy.
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