Shame (NC-17) 101 minutes B-
Sex & the City through the eyes of a Predator
Starring Michael Fassbender, Carey Mulligan, Lucy Walters, Nicole Beharie and James Badge Dale
How is it that a film about sex addiction is this unsexy...? Well, that's one of the things that makes Shame so effective, so uncomfortable and so real. It's not an "entertaining" film, and it's certainly not for everyone. It is however, an intriguing voyeuristic study of sexually addiction.
Brandon Sullivan (Fassbender), is a sexually compulsive New Yorker who is surprisingly dull aside from his obsession. Early into the film we observe Brandon paying for sex, pleasuring himself in the shower, showing up late for work, pleasuring himself in the office restroom, and getting his work computer confiscated because he unknowingly downloaded several viruses. It's obvious he has a problem; but, like all good addicts he hides it well and maintains his predatory routine without any major complications. Until, that is, his capricious sister (Mulligan) crashes his stylish, one bedroom, Manhattan apartment. She's needs a place to stay indefinitely, and as film critic Keith Uhlich so wonderfully wrote, "it majorly f*cks up his mojo because he suddenly has to give a damn about someone."
The film really takes off when Brandon's sister, Sissy, enters the picture. She is equally as damaged as her brother. Her arrival sets off a chain of events that brings Brandon's addiction and her problems to a dangerous crescendo. It took awhile for me to sink my teeth into this film, but when I did it really lingered. Shame is a hard film to swallow. But Fassbender's vivid portrayal, Mulligan's rendition of "New York, New York" (the best I've ever heard), and a sordid peak into the misunderstood world of sexual addition, makes this ambitious film worth exploring if you're curious about such things. Otherwise, I suggest you proceed with caution.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Friday, January 6, 2012
Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol - Movie Review
Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol (PG-13) 133 minutes C
Ethan Hunt is back! Run Ethan, Run!
Starring Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Paula Patton, Michel Nyqvist, Vladimir Mashkov, Josh Holloway, Anil Kapoor and Léa Seydoux.
I must admit, I was a little disappointed with this latest installment of Mission Impossible. That's not to say that it won't satisfy many of you reading this review. After all, it's currently the number one film in America, and it's receiving good reviews from my colleagues. I am not one who is easily impressed by hot cars, cool suits, slick gadgets and action sequences. Especially, when I don't feel any emotional attachment to the characters. Even the girl on girl fight scene and a curvy (post-pregnancy) Paula Patton did little to get me interested.
I'm reluctant to imply that I am trashing this film because there were some nice moments (I liked the Kremlin scene). Fans of the genre/franchise will most likely feel as though they got their money's worth. But despite the smarter and edgier facade, Ghost Protocol doesn't live up to the hype. Fun? I guess... but mostly forgettable.
Ethan Hunt is back! Run Ethan, Run!
Starring Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Paula Patton, Michel Nyqvist, Vladimir Mashkov, Josh Holloway, Anil Kapoor and Léa Seydoux.
I must admit, I was a little disappointed with this latest installment of Mission Impossible. That's not to say that it won't satisfy many of you reading this review. After all, it's currently the number one film in America, and it's receiving good reviews from my colleagues. I am not one who is easily impressed by hot cars, cool suits, slick gadgets and action sequences. Especially, when I don't feel any emotional attachment to the characters. Even the girl on girl fight scene and a curvy (post-pregnancy) Paula Patton did little to get me interested.
I'm reluctant to imply that I am trashing this film because there were some nice moments (I liked the Kremlin scene). Fans of the genre/franchise will most likely feel as though they got their money's worth. But despite the smarter and edgier facade, Ghost Protocol doesn't live up to the hype. Fun? I guess... but mostly forgettable.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Young Adult - Movie Review
Young Adult (R) 94 minutes B+
Punch Drunk Love
Starring Charlize Theron, Patton Oswalt, Patrick Wilson, Elizabeth Reaser and Jill Eikenberry.
Young Adult is a Hollywood comedy about a tall, skinny, intoxicating blonde who goes back to her hometown to win the heart of her (happily married) high school boyfriend. Normally, a Hollywood comedy with this storyline would be uber-lame, and reserved for the likes of Kate Hudson and Patrick Dempsey. But thanks to director Jason Reitman (Juno & Up In the Air) and screenwriter Diablo Cody (Juno & Jennifer's Body), Young Adult doesn't suck. It's actually one of the best films of the year.
Mavis Gary (Theron) is a 37 year-old ghost writer of a popular series of YA novels. She left her small Minnesota town after high school, moved to the big city and became something of a success story. Yet, a recent divorce and waning popularity of the aforementioned novels has driven her to drink. Fueled by vulnerability, alcohol and immaturity, Mavis is bringing sexy back with cringeworthy, funny and sad results. After a little bit of a slow start, this film provided one of my favorite endings of the year.
You won't be able to take your eyes off of Charlize Theron, while Patton Oswalt continues to prove that he is more than just a funny guy. Recommended!
Punch Drunk Love
Starring Charlize Theron, Patton Oswalt, Patrick Wilson, Elizabeth Reaser and Jill Eikenberry.
Young Adult is a Hollywood comedy about a tall, skinny, intoxicating blonde who goes back to her hometown to win the heart of her (happily married) high school boyfriend. Normally, a Hollywood comedy with this storyline would be uber-lame, and reserved for the likes of Kate Hudson and Patrick Dempsey. But thanks to director Jason Reitman (Juno & Up In the Air) and screenwriter Diablo Cody (Juno & Jennifer's Body), Young Adult doesn't suck. It's actually one of the best films of the year.
Mavis Gary (Theron) is a 37 year-old ghost writer of a popular series of YA novels. She left her small Minnesota town after high school, moved to the big city and became something of a success story. Yet, a recent divorce and waning popularity of the aforementioned novels has driven her to drink. Fueled by vulnerability, alcohol and immaturity, Mavis is bringing sexy back with cringeworthy, funny and sad results. After a little bit of a slow start, this film provided one of my favorite endings of the year.
You won't be able to take your eyes off of Charlize Theron, while Patton Oswalt continues to prove that he is more than just a funny guy. Recommended!
Confessional Blogging & Dieting (Book Reviews)
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| Publication Date: November 2011 |
This book sparked my creativity, and provided a lot of writing prompts. Selected Unpublished Blog Posts of a Mexican Panda Express Employee is funny, relatable, and a little sad. It's like reading the secret life of the pretty girl you see in class or at the office, but never speak to. Lately, I've been listening to Juliana Hatfield's new album (There's Always Another Girl), and I've decided that Megan Boyle might be the literary equivalent. Hatfield's first solo album, 1992's Hey Babe, was an impressive, confessional, debut full of hooks and self-doubt. The album garnered plenty of attention; yet, it was her next album, 1993's Become What You Are, that really put her on the map. If this book is Boyle's Hey Babe, I can't wait to read what's next.
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| Publication Date: December 2005 |
The Sonoma Diet is intriguing because much of the food it encourages is food I already eat on a regular basis. Yet, I have the sneaking suspicion that it's nowhere near as easy as it sounds. I don't doubt that it works, but who wants to give up sugar, wine and cheese for ten days? I will however, incorporate some of these practices and recipes into my daily routine. This book (we have the hardcover & audio version) covers all the bases, provides helpful nutritional insight and motivates me to improve my diet just in time for the new year. Unfortunately, I don't have the willpower to commit to any diet 100%, but doing half a diet (along with exercise) is better than nothing at all.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Tower Heist - Movie Review
Tower Heist (PG-13) 104 minutes C
Dumb Fun
Starring Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda, Matthew Broderick, Tea Leoni, Gabourey Sidibe
This is mindless fun with an interesting cast of characters. I would've liked it less had I waited to see it on video. Well worth the $6.00 I paid for two admissions.
Dumb Fun
Starring Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck, Alan Alda, Matthew Broderick, Tea Leoni, Gabourey Sidibe
This is mindless fun with an interesting cast of characters. I would've liked it less had I waited to see it on video. Well worth the $6.00 I paid for two admissions.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Swell Season - Movie Review
The Swell Season (NR) 90 Minutes B
The Anatomy of a Break-up
Starring Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova
During the chaos that is my December, I saw this film weeks ago and forgot to post my review. Swell Season is part musical doc, part break-up story. As good as the music is in this film, all anyone really wants to know is, "what happened?" Bandmates Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova seemed so perfect for each other. Those who saw the 2007 classic, Once, would agree. But The Swell Season is the amicable and subdued account of their quiet break-up.
Ironically, these two fell victim to the very lyrics they so passionately sing. There's no bad guy, and no one to blame. Yet, as I watched the film it was apparent that Hansard was not completely present with Irglova. While, she seemed a bit too submissive and occasionally misplaced (I never thought about their age difference until this film). All of these things, and different approaches to fame, eventually ate away at their union. The couple that once seemed so rocknroll perfect, were suddenly real, with real problems, and a real ending.
This is a good film that is better if you are familiar with Hansard and Irglova. It is a musical documentary that can't escape undertones of sadness. When the closing credits rolled, everyone walked out of this one as quiet as a pack of church mice.
The Anatomy of a Break-up
Starring Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova
During the chaos that is my December, I saw this film weeks ago and forgot to post my review. Swell Season is part musical doc, part break-up story. As good as the music is in this film, all anyone really wants to know is, "what happened?" Bandmates Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova seemed so perfect for each other. Those who saw the 2007 classic, Once, would agree. But The Swell Season is the amicable and subdued account of their quiet break-up.
Ironically, these two fell victim to the very lyrics they so passionately sing. There's no bad guy, and no one to blame. Yet, as I watched the film it was apparent that Hansard was not completely present with Irglova. While, she seemed a bit too submissive and occasionally misplaced (I never thought about their age difference until this film). All of these things, and different approaches to fame, eventually ate away at their union. The couple that once seemed so rocknroll perfect, were suddenly real, with real problems, and a real ending.
This is a good film that is better if you are familiar with Hansard and Irglova. It is a musical documentary that can't escape undertones of sadness. When the closing credits rolled, everyone walked out of this one as quiet as a pack of church mice.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo - Movie Review
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (R) 158 minutes B+
Rebel Girl
Starring Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, Stellan Skarsgard, Steven Berkoff, Robin Wright, Yorik van Wageningen, Joely Richardson, Geraldine James, Goran Visnjic, Donald Sumpter, Ulf Friberg, Bengt Carlsson, Tony Way, Per Myrberg, Josefin Asplund, Eva Fritjofson, Moa Garpendal, Maia Bergqvist, Sarah Appelberg and Julian Sands
I have not read the novel (by the late Stieg Larsson); nor, have I seen the 2009 Swedish film adaptation. Yet, none of that is necessary to enjoy one of the best films of the year. I would've given this film an "A" if the director could've figured out a way to make this film a little shorter without sacrificing quality. With a running time over two and a half hours the film tends to feel long. Nevertheless, Lisbeth (Rooney Mara) is the biggest badass heroine since Evelyn Salt (Salt, Angelina Jolie) and Hit Girl (Kick-Ass, Chloë Grace Moretz). Matter of fact, Lisbeth might be one of the best in movie history. The scene in which Lisbeth asks, "may I kill him?" is as memorable a moment as any I've seen this year.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo encapsulates much of what I seek in a good thriller- darkness, introspection, sexy time, likable characters and honest emotion. By the end of this one I experienced all of that, plus a little fatigue.
Best viewed on the big screen.
Rebel Girl
Starring Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, Stellan Skarsgard, Steven Berkoff, Robin Wright, Yorik van Wageningen, Joely Richardson, Geraldine James, Goran Visnjic, Donald Sumpter, Ulf Friberg, Bengt Carlsson, Tony Way, Per Myrberg, Josefin Asplund, Eva Fritjofson, Moa Garpendal, Maia Bergqvist, Sarah Appelberg and Julian Sands
I have not read the novel (by the late Stieg Larsson); nor, have I seen the 2009 Swedish film adaptation. Yet, none of that is necessary to enjoy one of the best films of the year. I would've given this film an "A" if the director could've figured out a way to make this film a little shorter without sacrificing quality. With a running time over two and a half hours the film tends to feel long. Nevertheless, Lisbeth (Rooney Mara) is the biggest badass heroine since Evelyn Salt (Salt, Angelina Jolie) and Hit Girl (Kick-Ass, Chloë Grace Moretz). Matter of fact, Lisbeth might be one of the best in movie history. The scene in which Lisbeth asks, "may I kill him?" is as memorable a moment as any I've seen this year.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo encapsulates much of what I seek in a good thriller- darkness, introspection, sexy time, likable characters and honest emotion. By the end of this one I experienced all of that, plus a little fatigue.
Best viewed on the big screen.
Monday, December 26, 2011
A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas - Movie Review
A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas (R) 90 minutes D-
Dumb, and almost fun
Starring Kal Penn, John Cho, Neil Patrick Harris, Danny Trejo, Isabella Gielniak, Elias Koteas and Richard Riehle
If you simply take A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas for what it is - a stupid, juvenile, stoner comedy... It's not horrible. But unless you're a fan of the aforementioned genre, don't waste your time. Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle was a fresh idea in 2004, Escape from Guantanamo Bay in 2008 was silly but permissible, and this latest installment jumps the shark.
It isn't so much that it's offensive, it's just dumb and unfunny. It's like the joke is on the audience for paying money to watch it. John Cho and Kal Penn can do better. Neil Patrick Harris (NPH), on the other hand, is the only performance worthwhile here.
Skip A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas, and rent one of these stoner comedies instead: The Wackness (2008), Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001), Friday (1995) or Dazed and Confused (1993).
Dumb, and almost fun
Starring Kal Penn, John Cho, Neil Patrick Harris, Danny Trejo, Isabella Gielniak, Elias Koteas and Richard Riehle
If you simply take A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas for what it is - a stupid, juvenile, stoner comedy... It's not horrible. But unless you're a fan of the aforementioned genre, don't waste your time. Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle was a fresh idea in 2004, Escape from Guantanamo Bay in 2008 was silly but permissible, and this latest installment jumps the shark.
It isn't so much that it's offensive, it's just dumb and unfunny. It's like the joke is on the audience for paying money to watch it. John Cho and Kal Penn can do better. Neil Patrick Harris (NPH), on the other hand, is the only performance worthwhile here.
Skip A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas, and rent one of these stoner comedies instead: The Wackness (2008), Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back (2001), Friday (1995) or Dazed and Confused (1993).
The Working Poor and Other Realities (Book Review)
Nickeled and Dimed - Barbara Ehrenreich B+
Publication Date: May 2001
Writer Barbara Ehrenreich leaves behind the comforts of her middle class existence, and goes undercover as a low-wage worker. She's a waitress in Florida, a cleaning lady and nurse's aide in Maine, and a Wal-mart employee in Minnesota. This type of investigative journalism feels familiar nowadays, yet Nickel and Dimed still manages to be provocative, entertaining and relevent.
Publication Date: May 2001
Writer Barbara Ehrenreich leaves behind the comforts of her middle class existence, and goes undercover as a low-wage worker. She's a waitress in Florida, a cleaning lady and nurse's aide in Maine, and a Wal-mart employee in Minnesota. This type of investigative journalism feels familiar nowadays, yet Nickel and Dimed still manages to be provocative, entertaining and relevent.
Out of the Fireplace and into the Fire (Book Review)
Out of This Furnace - Thomas Bell B
Publication Date: September 1941 (reissued June 1976)
Now that I have finished Out of This Furnace, I feel like I should work harder and love smarter. This multigenerational novel explores the plight of Slovak Immigrants from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. It's an eye opening look at their history, dreams and desires. Bell's novel (which is based on real-life events) exposes the early origins of America's cheap labor addiction.
This was my first foray into historical fiction, and I found these characters to be simple, yet inspirational. I was moved by their relationships, friendships and family dynamics. I was appalled by the evils that constantly threatened to ruin their dreams, take their lives, and keep them in a continuous cycle of poverty.
Out of This Furnace is as much about love as it is about the hardship of immigration; it's an easy read that will surprise you.
Publication Date: September 1941 (reissued June 1976)
Now that I have finished Out of This Furnace, I feel like I should work harder and love smarter. This multigenerational novel explores the plight of Slovak Immigrants from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. It's an eye opening look at their history, dreams and desires. Bell's novel (which is based on real-life events) exposes the early origins of America's cheap labor addiction.
This was my first foray into historical fiction, and I found these characters to be simple, yet inspirational. I was moved by their relationships, friendships and family dynamics. I was appalled by the evils that constantly threatened to ruin their dreams, take their lives, and keep them in a continuous cycle of poverty.
Out of This Furnace is as much about love as it is about the hardship of immigration; it's an easy read that will surprise you.
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