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Star Trek Into Darkness

Adam — Fri, 17 May 2013 01:18:52 +0000

When a high level intelligence member of Star Fleet (Benedict Cumberbatch) turns coats and begins a one man war against humanity Capt. Kirk (Chris Pine) is tapped to lead his team into a warzone and put an end to the battle. But with ethical dilemmas at hand and Mr. Spock’s (Zachary Quinto) insistence, Kirk and crew discover the battle they’re fighting may in fact be misguided. Who’s the real enemy and to what lengths will each member of the USS Enterprise have to go to prevent a galactic battle of epic proportions? Directed by Sci-Fi visionary J.J. Abrams this recreated cast of beloved characters continues in the spirit of Gene Roddenberry, with a twist of course. And, with acting from the principal ensemble living up to expectations, fans of the original cast will find plenty to smile about. Nods and references to previous Star Trek plotlines also make for extra levity. Although, overall pacing hits a few lulls with stale exposition and drawn out bro-mance moments. As far as overall plot points go this isn’t a terribly deep or philosophical head trip. But fear not, to counteract all of this and reassuring us of Kirk’s manliness comes the answer to every fan boy’s question “What’s the official Star Fleet underwear look like?” A totally gratuitous and laughable moment between a semi naked Alice Eve and Pine shows us– a bit on the nose, thanks J.J. now I can sleep at night. Of course we also get the obligatory and controversial J.J. lens flare effect that was overused in the last Star Trek film, but what’s new? Meanwhile, well done effects/CGI and a charging score makes for a full sensory experience; 3D effects however do nothing or very little. Regardless, It’s big, bold, fun and worth your while. Star Trek Into Darkness is rated PG-13.

The Great Gatsby

Adam — Fri, 10 May 2013 08:01:12 +0000

Based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, Nick Carraway (Tobey Maguire), World War I vet, writer turned financial bond salesman, and silent confidant to many is attempting to put his own life together when he discovers the mysterious world of the new money millionaire next door, Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio). Attracted and perplexed by Gatsby’s carefree and almost reckless habits, the two become quick friends, but for Carraway there’s a hidden cost. Adding to the mix, Carraway’s cousin, Daisy (Carey Mulligan), happens to be married to old money, Tom Buchanan (Joel Edgerton). But Gatsby’s interest in Daisy means old money mixing with new money, suspicions grow, meanwhile marital relations seem to be on the brink in the Buchanan household. The setup for great tragedy and heartbreak is at hand, perhaps it can all be avoided, after all, it’s Jay Gatsby’s unrelenting optimism that got him to where he’s at today, and what is it that Gatsby is really seeking? Directed by the artistic and creative visionary Baz Luhrmann, it appears as though Luhrmann is once again attempting to bridge 19th, 20th, and 21st century musical styles ala Moulin Rouge; alas, where Moulin seamlessly blends genres and decades, Gatsby seems to lack the savy and poetic touch to pull off the illusion. From a visual standpoint, there are moments where Gatsby is truly breathtaking, loaded with nods to all that was the roaring 20′s bleeding into the 30′s, an Art Deco splattered dream. Some might find this over the top, but in retrospect, it’s probably not significantly more flamboyant or garish than any other actual film from the period, Bugsby Berkeley comes to mind. Acting from the ensemble feels on par, although there’s something about a 30 something Gatsby saying “Sure thing old sport..” that just comes across as a little awkward, meh, champagne problems I suppose. Bottom line, It’s entertaining, doesn’t quite live up to Luhrmann’s potential, but still might make for a nice matinee. The Great Gatsby is rated PG-13.

Iron Man 3

Adam — Fri, 03 May 2013 08:01:24 +0000

It’s been several months since Iron Man/Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) helped to save the world with the Avengers; and, while the battle may have been won, the psychological damage he sustained continues to be an impact. The cocksure and whip smart inventor/millionaire now spends his sleepless nights in his workshop tinkering while paralyzing anxiety attacks appear to run their course at random. But, when a new and unknown terrorist known as The Mandarin (Ben Kingsley) begins bombing seemingly innocent targets including Tony’s personal body guard Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau), Stark’s ire is mustered, something must be done. Making matters worse, backing the Mandarin are two incredibly sharp individuals from Tony’s past– an ex-girlfriend and a like-minded inventor (Rebecca Hall and Guy Pearce). Stop The Mandarin and his associates, save his love, Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), save the country, and help his friend in the Army, Colonel James Rhodes (Don Cheadle), oh, and get over his anxiety, tall orders, but who better to put to the task than Iron Man? Directed and partially written by Shane Black, no slouch to the genre, the action blockbuster is alive and clanking making for an entertaining and interesting watch. And, for the first two thirds a compelling story seems to take shape, sadly, it’s the all important final act where things become a bit mundane and played out. Mind you, this doesn’t necessarily make the film bad, but leaves a fairly average finish to what was a strong start. Of course acting all round fits nicely. Effects and CGI work come across nicely on screen and anthemic scoring adds extra polish. Big, loud, and flashy, it’s fun. Iron Man 3 is rated PG-13.

Mud

Adam — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:03:36 +0000

Best friends Ellis and Neckbone (Tye Sheridan and Jacob Lofland) are two teenage river boys growing up in Arkansas. Out for an adventure the two come across an abandoned boat they claim as their own; that is until the two discover the boat is already occupied by a strange and superstitious man named Mud (Matthew McConaughey). As it is, Mud is a wanted man by the law and lawless bounty hunters, but it’s his true love for Juniper (Reese Witherspoon) that keeps him going. Drafted into service Ellis and Neckbone team up with Mud to find Juniper, but the heat is on and re-uniting the couple will come at a cost. What’s the price of love? Written and directed by Jeff Nichols, a rich screenplay dealing with the complexities of love as viewed by young and old and the helpless romantic dovetails to a fine grain. Almost elemental of Jack London or Stephen Crane, Nichols captures a part of American Culture in his own unique way, telling a story of fathers and sons and again the constant desire we all have to love each other. Acting from the ensemble hums with resonance and feels genuine through and through. Totally worth your attention. Mud is rated PG-13.

Arthur Newman

Adam — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:02:10 +0000

A burnt out Floor Manager of a Fed Ex branch in Florida (Colin Firth) feels an intense disdain from his ex-wife and son. A failure he decides to fake his death and disappear to Terre Haute as a Golf Pro. To do this will mean changing his identity to an assumed name, Arthur J. Newman. But Arthur has a good soul compass inside, so when he discovers a mysterious woman named Mike (Emily Blunt) strung out on cough syrup, his instinct to help kicks in and the two become fast friends and lovers. Traveling from one city to the next it becomes clear both are running from themselves, but perhaps facing their own transgressions is the only way to become who they really are? Strength in acting from this dynamic duo, Firth and Blunt bring their “A” game to the screen climbing into multiple personas. Giving further sustenance to this meaty but bitter story is Anne Heche who captures the uncomfortable role of Firth’s girlfriend in Florida. Compelling source material keeps the viewer engaged with characters we actually grow to care about, all directed by the enigmatic new comer Dante Ariola. While not this weekend’s biggest and flashiest film, those looking for smart cinema should heed regard for this gem. Arthur Newman is rated R.

The Big Wedding

Adam — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:01:35 +0000

Missy (Amanda Seyfried) is slated to marry Alejandro (Ben Barnes), the adopted son of now divorced Don and Ellie (Robert De Niro and Diane Keaton). As family flies in for the wedding, including brother and sister Jared and Lyla (Topher Grace and Katherine Heigl), family drama and skeletons from the closet are brought out one by one. Of note, Bebe (Susan Sarandon), Don’s new wife is forced to go into hiding to keep up appearances of an intact family for Alejandro’s biological mother (Patricia Rae). As chaos reigns and this comedy of errors spirals further out of control, it’s anyone’s guess if the happy couple will ever make it down the aisle, lest their own in-laws destroy things.So we’re dealing with a romantic comedy, not exactly the pinnacle of cinema magic, but wait what’s this? A romantic comedy with some grit in it’s eye and enough saltiness and raunch to keep the audience on their proverbial toes. While the overall concept and storyline is a flat liner, the comedic razor is sharp enough to save this script from certain death, unless you prefer light hearted and clean family fun, in which case Chitty Chitty Bang Bang might be more your speed. More importantly it’s the cast that saves this from becoming total dreck, it’s clear fun was had while putting this together. Not to be taken seriously, but perhaps a dirty little date night flick? The Big Wedding is rated R.

Oblivion

Adam — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 08:02:27 +0000

It’s been over 60 years since a horrific battle between humans and an alien race nearly destroyed the planet. Most have been evacuated to Titan, one of Saturn’s moons. Earth is now purely a source for hydro electric fusion which will be used for life on Titan. Jack (Tom Cruise) and Victoria (Andrea Riseborough) are a team of the last remaining people on earth, their purpose is to repair security drones and keep the generators running. Meanwhile, a group of remaining aliens, known as scavs, are becoming bolder in their attacks. What could the scavs possibly want at this late stage in the game, and what are these haunting memories of a mysterious woman (Olga Kurylenko) in Jack’s dreams? It’s only just the tip of the iceberg as everyone’s true intentions are revealed. Directed and partially written by Joseph Kosinski Oblivion starts with great promise as a spectacle in a post apocalyptic haze. Sadly, as the plot unravels, blatant plagiarism of at least half a dozen earlier sic-fi wonders is painfully apparent, a move sure to prompt groans and chuckles from dedicated fans of the genre. But wait, what’s this? Before we toss in the towel on this one, it should be pointed out there’s still a notable level of entertainment value achieved; and, Cruise still has enough charisma to charm the paint off walls. Original music featured throughout meshes nicely with the overall picture and creative cinematography makes for an immersive experience. Bottom line, fresh, brainy, and original– no. Mindless, popcorn chomping fun– yes. Maybe worth your consideration. Oblivion is rated PG-13.

The Company You Keep

Adam — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 08:01:08 +0000

In the 1960′s and 70′s a group of radical activists known as the Weather Underground took to acts of domestic terrorism to make their point. Ultimately their actions lead to at least one death, an action that prompted the group to go deep into hiding. Now, 30 plus years later activist Sharon Solarz’s (Susan Sarandon) decision to turn herself in is rough news for the others to accept, forcing each contemplate their own morals, principles, and ideals. Nick Sloan (Robert Redford) is one of these individuals. Now with a 12 year old daughter of his own Nick must track down the rest of his former underground in an effort to clear his name, unless the FBI stops him first. Stumbling onto this story, reporter Ben Shepard (Shia LaBeouf) might be able to help, but can a tiger change it’s stripes, it may be too late. Directed by Robert Redford and jam packed with Hollywood A-listers such as Nick Nolte, Chris Cooper, Julie Christie, Stanley Tucci, Richard Jenkins, Sam Elliot, and Terrence Howard the film has metric tons of acting weight and credibility. So there’s a certain amount of irony in the fact that Redford’s performance feels the weakest of the bunch, his relationship with his daughter (Jackie Evancho) feels strained at best and hard to digest, unfortunate since this is one of the major driving themes throughout. That, and a too convenient story that becomes convoluted knocks this fugitive-esque flick down a few pegs. Still, watching this ensemble is enjoyable enough to warrant a matinee or rental as the rest of the film feels clean and well polished for its film festival feel. The Company You Keep is Rated R…for Redford!

Starbuck

Adam — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 08:03:13 +0000

A forty something slacker named David (Patrick Huard) finally seems to be getting his act together. A fortuitous effort considering the fact that his semi-girlfriend, Valerie (Julie LeBreton), has just discovered she is pregnant with his child. But life is about to get interesting as David finds out that years earlier his sperm was given to over 500 women at a fertility clinic. Making matters more difficult, approximately 142 of his genetic children now want to know their father. To remain anonymous or come forward is a tough decision and could have a serious impact on his future with Valerie. Helping to guide, David’s best friend (Antoine Bertrand), serves as a lawyer and conscience. Alas, David is a passionate man and leads with his heart, how can this possibly work out? Quirky and fun, Director Ken Scott certainly has the mind for a creative and new story; and, despite the language barrier (the film is in French/Canadian with subtitles), he and co-writer Martin Petit have come up with a dramatic comedy that crosses borders. With European sensibilities and honest performances Starbuck was one of SIFF’s 2012 gems now getting its own release here in Seattle. Touching, thought provoking, and inspiring the film tugs heart strings you didn’t know you had and will still leave you with that “just right” feel good sense. Worth your while. Starbuck is rated R.

Trance

Adam — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 08:02:10 +0000

Simon (James McAvoy) is a fine arts auctioneer caught up with thousands of dollars of gambling debt and debt collectors getting closer every day. In order to pay off his ledger Simon teams up with Franck (Vincent Cassel), a hardened criminal mastermind, and a ringleader of a small crime circuit. With Franck’s help a scheme to steal a painting worth millions is cooked up, but there’s a problem. The painting is lost once it is stolen and having suffered a severe head injury Simon can’t recall where the painting has been stowed. To grease the gears and help him “remember” a hypnotherapist, Elizabeth (Rosario Dawson), is hired to facilitate the situation. But when Simon’s subconscious revolts, further plodding into the psyche of a tormented soul must commence, but to what end? Directed by Danny Boyle and written by Joe Ahearne and John Hodge, this vivid exploration of the mind and our perceptions is told in only a way that Boyle seems capable of; creative cinematography with raked angles and a wash of rich colors making for a visually stunning and beautiful composition. Acting from the ensemble is no small thing either, all strong performers, each showing range and depth to keep the viewer engaged. The weakness? a screenplay that eventually winds up a little too plotted and contrived, but this is almost forgivable as the rest of the film steamrolls along to it’s poignant end. Also, as with other Boyle films, song and music selection is key to the visuals, again, winners are chosen. Totally fun, totally worth it. Trance is rated R.