Nov 8 2013

Thor: The Dark World

Before the time of Asgard and the 9 realms there were the Dark Elves, a technologically advanced species capable of destroying all matter. Hidden in stasis for thousands of years the dark elves were once thought exterminated; alas, a convergence of all 9 realms seems to be the ticket to awaken them from their slumber. Now it’s up to Thor (Chris Hemsworth) to put a stop to the evil essence that’s about to be unleashed. Naturally, the battlefield happens to be Earth, home to Thor’s mortal love interest, scientist Jane Foster (Natalie Portman). But stopping the elves will take more power than just Thor, an alliance must be forged with Thor’s imprisoned brother, Loki (Tom Hiddleston), and also the scientific smarts of Jane Foster. Sacrifices will be made, but by whom, and how much? Thor Adding a bit more context and richness to the previously broad brushed concept, Director Alan Taylor has put together a solid followup to the 2011 success “Thor.” Featuring 8 screenwriting credits a fairly well thought out plot is shaped into an interesting first two thirds, the final third however seems closer to a drawn out free for all/hail Mary to cross the finish line. Still, Hemsworth and Hiddleston both seem to perfectly embody their characters, the fun of the adventure isn’t lost in the process; and refreshingly, Portman is actually given something to do this go round, that helps. Sadly, Christopher Eccleston’s evil Malekith barely seems to gain momentum before Thor steps in, more development would/could have been nice. Production all round seems slick and well assembled, although the highly anticipated teaser in the credits has a distinctly hokey look and lesser feel, so that happened. Still overall, entertainment value high, brain power relatively low. Thor: The Dark World is rated PG-13.


Nov 8 2013

Diana

Detailing the last two years of her life outside Buckingham Palace, Diana is the story of Princess Diana (Naomi Watts) charge to find her passion, help the world, and help herself to heal a broken heart. Coincidentally, the one to heal her broken heart and show her true love happens to be a Pakistani heart surgeon by the name of Hasnat Khan (Naveen Andrews); more than anything this is their story.Diana Having not watched the tabloids too closely in the late 90’s it’s a little hard to say how historically accurate this vision from Director Oliver Hirschbiegel is; however, for those with even a cursory understanding of lady Di and the tragedy that surrounded her untimely demise, a closer look at the humanity and daily struggle she faced becomes painfully apparent. A new found respect is found. Meanwhile, seeing Watts as Diana can be a little hard at times, how can we replace the mental image of one of the most photoed individuals of modern day? None the less, a solid effort is made by all involved. Still perhaps not the strongest choice this weekend, the film does begin to drag in it’s final acts, although worthy of the fan’s attention. Diana is rated PG-13.


Nov 8 2013

Dallas Buyers Club

Based on the true story of Texas electrician Ron Woodroof (Matthew McConaughey), a man’s man diagnosed with HIV in the mid 1980’s. Battling with the FDA, the IRS, and more bureaucracy than anyone should have to encounter, the details of Ron’s fight to find treatment and help others in the process are on display. Initially given 30 days to live Ron surpassed this in years, but hard fought victories often come with a price, in this case, friendships with the good ol’ boys of Texas. Yet as one door closes another opens and new friendships are forged, this time with the unlikeliest of individuals, a trans-genered woman, Rayon (Jared Leto), and the gentle Dr. Saks (Jennifer Garner). Love, sex, bull riding, and doing what’s right, it’s a potent mix. DallasBuyers Unstoppable powerhouse acting and commitment from McConaughey and Leto easily cast these two as some of the best performances of the year, meanwhile Garner brings even more humanity to the table. Director Jean-Marc Vallée has struck gold with this one from start to finish. If anything, a little trimming might have made this a bit easier to swallow, but it’s just fine as it is. This is a must see for cinephiles. Dallas Buyers Club is rated R.