There have been talks about the next installment of the X-Men franchise, a sequel to the X-Men First Class, which made me decide to finally see the first one. I did see the first X-Men films but decided to just skip this one. That's probably one of the dumbest decisions. But hey, as the famous saying goes, "Better late than never."
I remember watching the cartoons when I was a little kid. In fact, I started re-watching it a few years ago to refresh my memory because I was starting to forget a lot of the details and characters. I didn't make it past episode 4 because I got busy with school and stuff. However, watching this film inspired me to continue re-watching it. I've always been a fan of the X-Men, both the concept and execution. I watched the first three X-Men movies, although only a tiny fragment remains in my memory. I remember it boasting an all-star cast including Hugh Jackman, Halle Berry and James Marsden. I don't remember a lot of it, but I do remember enjoying those films.
I'm not sure if I'm just saying this because I have just seen it, but X-Men First class was probably the best one yet. I didn't even notice the time. The movie's running time was 2 hours, but it didn't feel like two hours because it was packed with all sorts of things. It had action, drama, and more action. The movie grabbed my attention from the beginning and didn't let it go until the very end. I was continuously anticipating the next move of Professor X and Magneto.
It also straightened up a lot of things for me. How Magneto and Charles Xavier went separate ways, how Mystique suddenly went against Professor X's team; it showed the "history" of the X-Men as a whole. As pathetic as this may sound, this is the first time I found out about how Beast became Beast. So I guess the movie taught me some things as well. I don't read a lot of comics so I'm not completely aware of how the story developed in the comics. However, I think the movie was able to stand on its own, exploring the different backgrounds of the mutants. I just wish they showed a bit more of the other mutants.
The whole cast of the film gave strong performances. It was nice to see Jennifer Lawrence in a lighter role, especially compared to Winter's Bone and The Hunger Games. This is no exception to the "if James McAvoy is in it, it's probably good" assumption (but I've only seen a couple o his films to make that statement a certainty). The whole cast did a phenomenal job, especially in the action scenes. I read how they prepared for the scenes and I can only imagine how tough it was to shoot mid-air or to imagine the effects. Hugh Jackman's cameo was surprising but still awesome!
I am now looking forward to the next movie. I am hoping Jennifer Lawrence's stint in The Hunger Games will merit her a bigger role in the upcoming movie. I also hope it will be able to maintain the whole cast because I already like this group of actors. If this movie is any indication of the spectacle that the next movie will bring, movie-goers better prepare for a whole new movie experience.
April 10, 2012
April 09, 2012
Bridge to Terabithia
I don't usually start entries in this manner, but I'm just going to say it now; people should see Bridge to Terabithia. I know it's a children's movie, but I think even adults will pick up a thing or two from it. To start off, it's a really, really good film. I know I always say how easy it is to impress me, but this one is probably one of my top children's movies of all time, including animated films. That's how good this movie is.
It's a giant metaphor to a lot of things: the combination of the innocence of a child, the obstacles children go through, the vast range of our imagination, and a lot more. The characters of the two main protagonist in the film embody what being young is about. The fascination kids have for things they haven't seen, the longing to belong to a group of people (preferably the cool kids), the ambition to create a better living atmosphere - one that does not involve monetary problems, bullying, pain - their own Terabithia.
I think what made the film relatable was the fact that it portrayed real scenarios and real emotions. It showed how Jess longed for the affection of his father and I think everyone went to that phase where we wanted to get the approval of our parents and did not want to disappoint them. There was also infatuation and how it made us feel. Of course, there were also frustrations of being picked on, and having people not like you. We all wanted to impress, and most of us failed miserably at that. I also kept on re-watching the scene where Jess' told about what happened to Leslie, and the scene where his father talks to him in the forest. Those scenes were genuine, and those scenes, I would assume, were the scenes where emotions were provoked and contemplation started. Those two scenes were the standouts for me.
Of course this film wouldn't have worked if it didn't have the strength the cast had. Five people made this film that special because of the level of brilliance they showcased. AnnaSophia Robb, who also starred in Race to Witch Mountain, really is a great actress. She channeled a strong girl facing the challenges of being a kid. I read it somewhere that she wrote a letter expressing her desire to play the role of Leslie. I'm just happy that whoever got that letter took notice cause she was perfect in this movie. Just the perfect balance of weird and charming.
It's funny how in the two movies I've seen Josh Hutcherson star in, his characters are a little weaker than that of the female lead (Jennifer Lawrence/Katniss in The Hunger Games and AnnaSophia Robb/Leslie in Bridge to Terabithia). Setting that aside, knowing that the film was made when he was much younger made me envious to a certain degree. At a young age, he had the maturity to take on a role like this, a kid dealing with bullying, guilt and death. Not just that, he was actually believable in his portrayal of his character. I wish I was as talented as he is. He displayed a wide variety of acting in this movie, ranging from comedic scenes to intense drama. He managed to channel all these different feelings and translate it to the camera while still keeping it genuine. That's a clear sign of his talent.
Robert Patrick as Jess' dad just came out of nowhere. I personally didn't care for the character in the beginning, and just when the film was reaching its climax, he made the character matter. As I've mentioned before, one of the stand out scenes for me was when he was talking to Jess in the forest about death and hell. Seeing that scene was a little depressing actually, but that's just cause the two actors were doing everything right. The funny thing is, I have seen a few of his movies, but he only had a small role in those movies. It was nice to witness the caliber of his work.
Bailee Madison provided comic relief throughout the entire film. She was just too funny in this movie, and I meant that in the best way possible. She had this charm that is impossible to resist. At such a young age, she has shown that she is a capable actress. It was a delight to see her in the film.
Zooey Deschanel didn't get a very big part of the film but I loved seeing all her scenes. Her scenes were always fun and light, and like a breath of fresh air to an otherwise heavy atmosphere(in the school setting). I wish the film featured her more. I thought the scene when she went to the museum with Jess might be boring, but I was wrong. Then I realized it was impossible for it to be boring because Zooey Deschanel was in it.
It took me a while to digest this movie, probably because it hit me hard. It's a depressing movie, in a sense that I was able to relate to the problems featured in this movie. It's that kind of movie that keeps you smiling and lets you have a great time before dropping this enormous bomb right in front of you. A big part of it was the fact that I didn't read the book and had no idea what it was about. I just knew that when I found out about it when I was in high school I wanted to watch it. (We were supposed to, but my friends and I weren't able to go through with it.) Seeing the story develop caught me a little off guard.
I probably am overselling it to some of you, but trust me when I say it is a good film. It may probably get a little confusing at times, especially the scenes in Terabithia, but sit through it and you'll appreciate it just fine. Terabithia encapsulates that utopia we all want and the film did an amazing job in utilizing that.
It's a giant metaphor to a lot of things: the combination of the innocence of a child, the obstacles children go through, the vast range of our imagination, and a lot more. The characters of the two main protagonist in the film embody what being young is about. The fascination kids have for things they haven't seen, the longing to belong to a group of people (preferably the cool kids), the ambition to create a better living atmosphere - one that does not involve monetary problems, bullying, pain - their own Terabithia.
I think what made the film relatable was the fact that it portrayed real scenarios and real emotions. It showed how Jess longed for the affection of his father and I think everyone went to that phase where we wanted to get the approval of our parents and did not want to disappoint them. There was also infatuation and how it made us feel. Of course, there were also frustrations of being picked on, and having people not like you. We all wanted to impress, and most of us failed miserably at that. I also kept on re-watching the scene where Jess' told about what happened to Leslie, and the scene where his father talks to him in the forest. Those scenes were genuine, and those scenes, I would assume, were the scenes where emotions were provoked and contemplation started. Those two scenes were the standouts for me.
Of course this film wouldn't have worked if it didn't have the strength the cast had. Five people made this film that special because of the level of brilliance they showcased. AnnaSophia Robb, who also starred in Race to Witch Mountain, really is a great actress. She channeled a strong girl facing the challenges of being a kid. I read it somewhere that she wrote a letter expressing her desire to play the role of Leslie. I'm just happy that whoever got that letter took notice cause she was perfect in this movie. Just the perfect balance of weird and charming.
It's funny how in the two movies I've seen Josh Hutcherson star in, his characters are a little weaker than that of the female lead (Jennifer Lawrence/Katniss in The Hunger Games and AnnaSophia Robb/Leslie in Bridge to Terabithia). Setting that aside, knowing that the film was made when he was much younger made me envious to a certain degree. At a young age, he had the maturity to take on a role like this, a kid dealing with bullying, guilt and death. Not just that, he was actually believable in his portrayal of his character. I wish I was as talented as he is. He displayed a wide variety of acting in this movie, ranging from comedic scenes to intense drama. He managed to channel all these different feelings and translate it to the camera while still keeping it genuine. That's a clear sign of his talent.
Robert Patrick as Jess' dad just came out of nowhere. I personally didn't care for the character in the beginning, and just when the film was reaching its climax, he made the character matter. As I've mentioned before, one of the stand out scenes for me was when he was talking to Jess in the forest about death and hell. Seeing that scene was a little depressing actually, but that's just cause the two actors were doing everything right. The funny thing is, I have seen a few of his movies, but he only had a small role in those movies. It was nice to witness the caliber of his work.
Bailee Madison provided comic relief throughout the entire film. She was just too funny in this movie, and I meant that in the best way possible. She had this charm that is impossible to resist. At such a young age, she has shown that she is a capable actress. It was a delight to see her in the film.
Zooey Deschanel didn't get a very big part of the film but I loved seeing all her scenes. Her scenes were always fun and light, and like a breath of fresh air to an otherwise heavy atmosphere(in the school setting). I wish the film featured her more. I thought the scene when she went to the museum with Jess might be boring, but I was wrong. Then I realized it was impossible for it to be boring because Zooey Deschanel was in it.
It took me a while to digest this movie, probably because it hit me hard. It's a depressing movie, in a sense that I was able to relate to the problems featured in this movie. It's that kind of movie that keeps you smiling and lets you have a great time before dropping this enormous bomb right in front of you. A big part of it was the fact that I didn't read the book and had no idea what it was about. I just knew that when I found out about it when I was in high school I wanted to watch it. (We were supposed to, but my friends and I weren't able to go through with it.) Seeing the story develop caught me a little off guard.
I probably am overselling it to some of you, but trust me when I say it is a good film. It may probably get a little confusing at times, especially the scenes in Terabithia, but sit through it and you'll appreciate it just fine. Terabithia encapsulates that utopia we all want and the film did an amazing job in utilizing that.
April 08, 2012
Salvation Boulevard
As part of my goal to see previous films of the cast of The Hunger Games, I decided to watch Salvation Boulevard, wherein Isabelle Fuhrman, who played Clove in The Hunger Games, had a role. I was choosing between Orphan or this, but decided on this cause I had no idea what the film was about.
It's a film revolving around religion which is always a touchy subject. I won't defend or attack religion. We all have different perceptions regarding the matter and I don't think it's relevant in discussing this film. I will just talk about the film which happened to revolve around this seemingly sensitive topic. In this film, Pierce Brosnan's character is a pastor who kills an atheist professor accidentally, and tried to cover it up by making it look like it's a suicide. (That's basically the premise of the film.) There are a lot of things we can examine in this premise. I came up with several, and to be honest, I don't know if I got it right.
I definitely liked it much more than I thought I would. I was not familiar with the movie at all so I had no expectations but it was a really fun movie. It had an all-star cast, which made it a lot more fun because the characters they were playing were very different to the ones we're used to seeing them play. I don't think it would appeal to some people for the simple reason that it's about religion. If you're not overly sensitive about the matter of religion, you might like it.
Let's start with Pierce Brosnan. I don't know about any of you, but I'm used to seeing him kick ass in movies, not spreading the word of God. He's James Bond! Of course he has played a lot of different characters, but for some reason I found it weird to see him praising God. That's probably cause my image of him immediately reads James Bond. He does religious very well though so I could live with that.
Jennifer stars as an overly religious lady to a point that her faith in God, and in the pastor, consumed her. She played it very well, I think. I don't know if its supposed to come off this way, but while watching the movie, I kept thinking her character was a psychopath (if she wasn't, she's pretty damn close to it). Maybe it is her own flavor or spin of how religious women act and think or an exaggeration of how people tend to act and think. I didn't mind it at all because her character made the movie entertaining. This is my first time seeing her in a comedy film, and I think she was hilarious.
Greg Kinnear played the protagonist in the film - the witness being attacked for accusing the pastor of killing the professor. The character seemed confused throughout the film, as he should, but I found that funny as well. He probably represents those who are in between, people who believes but are not exactly highly religious. Maybe he represents those who are confused. Just maybe.
Isabelle Fuhrman's character was probably my favorite, and not just because she's Isabelle Fuhrman. Her character showed skepticism and rationality against the so-called "blind faith." She cites scientific evidences to question the authenticity of the Bible stories, and ask them directly to the religious people. She's this witty and charming girl, and her character was very appealing. She's the anti-Gwen(Jennifer Connelly's character), and that balance read brilliance to me. She was able to question the religious subtly, which I think a lot of people do now. Its realistic but downright amusing.
I don't know what to make of this film. It's funny, dramatic, and seems like an attack on the Church. I'm not sure. When I watched the movie, the things I got were 1) religious leaders are imperfect 2) religious leaders can be involved in a massive deception and 3) religion can break relationships. I wish I knew what it meant. I don't wanna claim that I do. To be honest, even if I did get it right, I'm not sure what to say next as well. If it does attack religion, then I guess I'll have to commend it for tackling a very sensitive issue in today's society. Maybe's its a one big social commentary on religion. (I'm just voicing out possibilities.)
There were so many religious undertones that I could no longer sense whether it's meant to support religion, or if they're just making a huge parody of religion. I'm thinking the latter mainly because of the impressions I got while watching it. It's not an explicit attack on the Church, but maybe more on the people who let go of rationality because of their faith. Maybe what the film is trying to say is that we all have our beliefs and religious views, but there are also truths to be recognized and occurrences that call for a rational thinking.
All I can say is that it was highly entertaining for me. It's not your typical movie for sure but I guess it wouldn't hurt to sit through it. I haven't seen reviews or opinions on the film. I'm sure some would bash the film for several reasons; but I don't even care. I think this film has entertainment value (as I've said before, I am easily amused) and haters should at least recognize that.
It's a film revolving around religion which is always a touchy subject. I won't defend or attack religion. We all have different perceptions regarding the matter and I don't think it's relevant in discussing this film. I will just talk about the film which happened to revolve around this seemingly sensitive topic. In this film, Pierce Brosnan's character is a pastor who kills an atheist professor accidentally, and tried to cover it up by making it look like it's a suicide. (That's basically the premise of the film.) There are a lot of things we can examine in this premise. I came up with several, and to be honest, I don't know if I got it right.
I definitely liked it much more than I thought I would. I was not familiar with the movie at all so I had no expectations but it was a really fun movie. It had an all-star cast, which made it a lot more fun because the characters they were playing were very different to the ones we're used to seeing them play. I don't think it would appeal to some people for the simple reason that it's about religion. If you're not overly sensitive about the matter of religion, you might like it.
Let's start with Pierce Brosnan. I don't know about any of you, but I'm used to seeing him kick ass in movies, not spreading the word of God. He's James Bond! Of course he has played a lot of different characters, but for some reason I found it weird to see him praising God. That's probably cause my image of him immediately reads James Bond. He does religious very well though so I could live with that.
Jennifer stars as an overly religious lady to a point that her faith in God, and in the pastor, consumed her. She played it very well, I think. I don't know if its supposed to come off this way, but while watching the movie, I kept thinking her character was a psychopath (if she wasn't, she's pretty damn close to it). Maybe it is her own flavor or spin of how religious women act and think or an exaggeration of how people tend to act and think. I didn't mind it at all because her character made the movie entertaining. This is my first time seeing her in a comedy film, and I think she was hilarious.
Greg Kinnear played the protagonist in the film - the witness being attacked for accusing the pastor of killing the professor. The character seemed confused throughout the film, as he should, but I found that funny as well. He probably represents those who are in between, people who believes but are not exactly highly religious. Maybe he represents those who are confused. Just maybe.
Isabelle Fuhrman's character was probably my favorite, and not just because she's Isabelle Fuhrman. Her character showed skepticism and rationality against the so-called "blind faith." She cites scientific evidences to question the authenticity of the Bible stories, and ask them directly to the religious people. She's this witty and charming girl, and her character was very appealing. She's the anti-Gwen(Jennifer Connelly's character), and that balance read brilliance to me. She was able to question the religious subtly, which I think a lot of people do now. Its realistic but downright amusing.
I don't know what to make of this film. It's funny, dramatic, and seems like an attack on the Church. I'm not sure. When I watched the movie, the things I got were 1) religious leaders are imperfect 2) religious leaders can be involved in a massive deception and 3) religion can break relationships. I wish I knew what it meant. I don't wanna claim that I do. To be honest, even if I did get it right, I'm not sure what to say next as well. If it does attack religion, then I guess I'll have to commend it for tackling a very sensitive issue in today's society. Maybe's its a one big social commentary on religion. (I'm just voicing out possibilities.)
There were so many religious undertones that I could no longer sense whether it's meant to support religion, or if they're just making a huge parody of religion. I'm thinking the latter mainly because of the impressions I got while watching it. It's not an explicit attack on the Church, but maybe more on the people who let go of rationality because of their faith. Maybe what the film is trying to say is that we all have our beliefs and religious views, but there are also truths to be recognized and occurrences that call for a rational thinking.
All I can say is that it was highly entertaining for me. It's not your typical movie for sure but I guess it wouldn't hurt to sit through it. I haven't seen reviews or opinions on the film. I'm sure some would bash the film for several reasons; but I don't even care. I think this film has entertainment value (as I've said before, I am easily amused) and haters should at least recognize that.
April 06, 2012
Winter's Bone
As stated on my previous entry, I am watching films done by the cast of The Hunger Games before any of them landed a role in the smash hit. I wanted to see how these actors were before; and to be honest, I am enjoying it. It's been fun seeing how these people have changed and evolved to who they are now.
Winter's Bone is the film that brought Jennifer Lawrence to prominence after receiving an Academy Award nomination last year. It's no surprise. Jennifer Lawrence is one of the most talented and believable actresses in Hollywood today. She has the potential and talent to surpass the stars we are looking up to now. She portrayed a very different character in Winter's Bone. The only similarities I can spot between the two characters I've seen her play (Ree Dolly and Katniss Everdeen) were the toughness and the drive they possessed. It's probably cause of the two different premises the films revolved in.
Jennifer Lawrence is able to trigger emotions from viewers, at least in my experience. I felt her struggles as I accompanied her through her journey in search for her missing father. I felt the agony and pain when she was beaten by a group of women. I saw the pain when she was brought to her father. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the movie, anticipating what would happen to her, what would happen to their house, will she succeed. Lawrence has a way of making her eyes do the acting, and it's not just about the tears. Her eyes can portray sadness, worry, fear, disgust, and anger. There was one particular scene when she was talking to the bondsman; and this scene was so striking to me. The way she told the man of how searching for her father inside the house would not only be a waste of time but would also piss her off. This is a very minor detail, but it was a highlight for me cause it was when i got shills just looking Lawrence's reaction. The way she stared the man, the way she said her line - it was all perfect. I think what makes it more amazing is the fact that I've seen lots of her interviews, and she has this fun, bubbly personality. The fact that she can shut that off and channel a totally different persona is just amazing, mostly because she does it so well.
The movie showcased a strong, stellar cast. I have absolutely no idea who the actors were with the exception of Jennifer Lawrence, the main reason I watched Winter's Bone and Garret Dillahunt, who I've seen in a couple of movies (I also know he stars in Raising Hope but I don't watch it). So far I've enjoyed everything I've seen from Garret Dillahunt. I first saw him in the movie "Amigo," a film by John Sayles starring Joel Torre, a Filipino actor. I hated Dillahunt's character as first, but was amazed by him halfway through the film. He was really good in that movie, very genuine and very interesting. Then I saw him in Burning Bright starring Briana Evigan, a movie I also enjoyed. Now, Winter's Bone has proven that he really is a great actor. Maybe I should start watching Raising Hope to see a different side of this actor in a comedy show. Lauren Sweetser also gave a strong performance. She embodied the perfect confidant.
The biggest surprise for me, I guess, were the two kids. These kids got skills in acting. The little girl seems a bit stiff in some parts of the movie, but that was just part of her charm. Both kids displayed their potentials as actors and have the ability to go big. Hopefully they will.
Winter's Bone was different that the films I usually watch. If Lawrence wasn't in it, I probably would never even consider watching the film. I've always found heavy drama movies less appealing than comedies, or feel good movies. The movie got nominated for several Academy Awards, and for good reason. The film was exquisite. It was a strong movie with a charming storyline of a struggling heroine. It featured a competent cast who delivered. The cinematography was also well-balanced. I will not be surprised if one day this movie ends up in the American Film Institute's list of top films. I don't know if that will happen. However, if it does, I will understand why. People who have seen the film will.
From the very beginning the atmosphere created by the film was very tensed and melancholic. What I loved in the beginning of the movie was how the first few scenes established the situation of the characters. It provided the problem to be tackled, the characters involved, the storyline the film will follow. It was well thought out, and carefully planned.
I liked the visuals of the film. The shots they used in the film were captivating and captured the essence of the film. The poverty surrounding Ree Dolly's and her struggle to make ends meet were reflected by the scenes found in the movie. The visuals were supported by the audio which I also appreciated. The sound effects and background music the film produced just provided an exciting feeling. The scene where Lawrence was chasing the big boss made my heart beat together with the beats on the background.
Another thing that's so good about the film is how they incorporated social commentaries in the film. Poverty, violence, drugs. and a whole lot more. It tackled issues relevant to today's society, and I think that part of the film was excellent. The film orchestrated in a manner that will relate to the people seeing the film. Ree Dolly epitomizes the persona of those marginalized people; those who suffer in today's chaotic society.
Overall, I completely understand the acclaim the movie received. For a film with a budget of 2 million dollars (according to Box Office Mojo), I had an even better viewing experience than some of the multi-million dollar films. The simplicity of the film was engaging, to say the least. It's one of those movies I'll think about and think "I'm glad I saw that film."
Winter's Bone is the film that brought Jennifer Lawrence to prominence after receiving an Academy Award nomination last year. It's no surprise. Jennifer Lawrence is one of the most talented and believable actresses in Hollywood today. She has the potential and talent to surpass the stars we are looking up to now. She portrayed a very different character in Winter's Bone. The only similarities I can spot between the two characters I've seen her play (Ree Dolly and Katniss Everdeen) were the toughness and the drive they possessed. It's probably cause of the two different premises the films revolved in.
Jennifer Lawrence is able to trigger emotions from viewers, at least in my experience. I felt her struggles as I accompanied her through her journey in search for her missing father. I felt the agony and pain when she was beaten by a group of women. I saw the pain when she was brought to her father. I was on the edge of my seat throughout the movie, anticipating what would happen to her, what would happen to their house, will she succeed. Lawrence has a way of making her eyes do the acting, and it's not just about the tears. Her eyes can portray sadness, worry, fear, disgust, and anger. There was one particular scene when she was talking to the bondsman; and this scene was so striking to me. The way she told the man of how searching for her father inside the house would not only be a waste of time but would also piss her off. This is a very minor detail, but it was a highlight for me cause it was when i got shills just looking Lawrence's reaction. The way she stared the man, the way she said her line - it was all perfect. I think what makes it more amazing is the fact that I've seen lots of her interviews, and she has this fun, bubbly personality. The fact that she can shut that off and channel a totally different persona is just amazing, mostly because she does it so well.
The movie showcased a strong, stellar cast. I have absolutely no idea who the actors were with the exception of Jennifer Lawrence, the main reason I watched Winter's Bone and Garret Dillahunt, who I've seen in a couple of movies (I also know he stars in Raising Hope but I don't watch it). So far I've enjoyed everything I've seen from Garret Dillahunt. I first saw him in the movie "Amigo," a film by John Sayles starring Joel Torre, a Filipino actor. I hated Dillahunt's character as first, but was amazed by him halfway through the film. He was really good in that movie, very genuine and very interesting. Then I saw him in Burning Bright starring Briana Evigan, a movie I also enjoyed. Now, Winter's Bone has proven that he really is a great actor. Maybe I should start watching Raising Hope to see a different side of this actor in a comedy show. Lauren Sweetser also gave a strong performance. She embodied the perfect confidant.
The biggest surprise for me, I guess, were the two kids. These kids got skills in acting. The little girl seems a bit stiff in some parts of the movie, but that was just part of her charm. Both kids displayed their potentials as actors and have the ability to go big. Hopefully they will.
Winter's Bone was different that the films I usually watch. If Lawrence wasn't in it, I probably would never even consider watching the film. I've always found heavy drama movies less appealing than comedies, or feel good movies. The movie got nominated for several Academy Awards, and for good reason. The film was exquisite. It was a strong movie with a charming storyline of a struggling heroine. It featured a competent cast who delivered. The cinematography was also well-balanced. I will not be surprised if one day this movie ends up in the American Film Institute's list of top films. I don't know if that will happen. However, if it does, I will understand why. People who have seen the film will.
From the very beginning the atmosphere created by the film was very tensed and melancholic. What I loved in the beginning of the movie was how the first few scenes established the situation of the characters. It provided the problem to be tackled, the characters involved, the storyline the film will follow. It was well thought out, and carefully planned.
I liked the visuals of the film. The shots they used in the film were captivating and captured the essence of the film. The poverty surrounding Ree Dolly's and her struggle to make ends meet were reflected by the scenes found in the movie. The visuals were supported by the audio which I also appreciated. The sound effects and background music the film produced just provided an exciting feeling. The scene where Lawrence was chasing the big boss made my heart beat together with the beats on the background.
Another thing that's so good about the film is how they incorporated social commentaries in the film. Poverty, violence, drugs. and a whole lot more. It tackled issues relevant to today's society, and I think that part of the film was excellent. The film orchestrated in a manner that will relate to the people seeing the film. Ree Dolly epitomizes the persona of those marginalized people; those who suffer in today's chaotic society.
Overall, I completely understand the acclaim the movie received. For a film with a budget of 2 million dollars (according to Box Office Mojo), I had an even better viewing experience than some of the multi-million dollar films. The simplicity of the film was engaging, to say the least. It's one of those movies I'll think about and think "I'm glad I saw that film."
April 05, 2012
Race to Witch Mountain
As part of the awesomeness of The Hunger Games, which became my most viewed entry (thanks to people all over the world), I decided to watch previous films of the stars of Hunger Games. I was supposed to start it off with Winter's Bone, the independent film that showcased the brilliance of Jennifer Lawrence. However, things didn't go as planned (it's a long story) and I decided to start with a movie that stars one of the other tributes, and lead villain, Race to With Mountain starring Dwayne Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb and Alexander Ludwig, who played Cato in The Hunger Games.
I found the title weird, only because I didn't feel like it was a race to Witch Mountain. I got the idea but the title didn't quite match the story, or at least how they got to Witch Mountain. There were also scenes that were anti-climactic. But these were very little and does not affect the entertainment value of the movie as a whole.
I felt mixed reactions on the film. Majority of it was really good, with some parts that didn't sit too well with me (mostly because of preferences). As a whole the movie was entertaining, without a doubt. I had a smile on my face the entire movie. It's funny, witty, engaging, exciting, everything a kid's adventure film should be. It had the perfect mixture of a definite storyline, great cinematography, and a talented group of actors.
Anna Sophia Robb was a delight! Sweet and innocent, yet feisty. She's a really great actress. Part of the list I have is Bridge to Terabithia, a film that starred AnnaSophia and Josh Hutcherson, who played Peeta in The Hunger Games. Now, more than seeing a THG star in his previous work, I'm more excited to see AnnaSophia tackle another character. I think she's one of those actresses who can really embody the character's persona (she played an alien in Race to Witch Mountain!!) She's charming, but she also has the talent to back her up.
Had I not known that Alexander Ludwig was one of the leads, I wouldn't have recognized him. It wasn't just his appearance but also his acting performance, his register to the camera, his delivery of his lines. He has definitely evolved, which is saying a lot since he was already that good in Race to Witch Mountain. It is good to see a great actor improve and be even better as seen in his performance in his latest project.
I wish Carla Gugino had more screen time. She was amazing and pretty badass too. But whatever time she had in the movie, she made sure the audience noticed.
Dwayne Johnson looked awkward in some parts of the film. Other than that, he was good. The action scenes were well suited for a person like him who came from a wrestling background. He is a bankable actor too. I found out that his movies, well, most of them, earned significant sums of money. There were only a couple that didn't quite make a hit. Race to Witch Mountain did well in the box office, as it should since it really was a very entertaining movie.
I remember wanting to watch the movie when it came out back in 2009, but didn't get the chance to because I was a little kid with limited money. I sort of regret not seeing it on the big screen only because I believe I would appreciate the effects and scenes a lot better. Having said that, I had a great experience watching this movie.
I found the title weird, only because I didn't feel like it was a race to Witch Mountain. I got the idea but the title didn't quite match the story, or at least how they got to Witch Mountain. There were also scenes that were anti-climactic. But these were very little and does not affect the entertainment value of the movie as a whole.
I felt mixed reactions on the film. Majority of it was really good, with some parts that didn't sit too well with me (mostly because of preferences). As a whole the movie was entertaining, without a doubt. I had a smile on my face the entire movie. It's funny, witty, engaging, exciting, everything a kid's adventure film should be. It had the perfect mixture of a definite storyline, great cinematography, and a talented group of actors.
Anna Sophia Robb was a delight! Sweet and innocent, yet feisty. She's a really great actress. Part of the list I have is Bridge to Terabithia, a film that starred AnnaSophia and Josh Hutcherson, who played Peeta in The Hunger Games. Now, more than seeing a THG star in his previous work, I'm more excited to see AnnaSophia tackle another character. I think she's one of those actresses who can really embody the character's persona (she played an alien in Race to Witch Mountain!!) She's charming, but she also has the talent to back her up.
Had I not known that Alexander Ludwig was one of the leads, I wouldn't have recognized him. It wasn't just his appearance but also his acting performance, his register to the camera, his delivery of his lines. He has definitely evolved, which is saying a lot since he was already that good in Race to Witch Mountain. It is good to see a great actor improve and be even better as seen in his performance in his latest project.
I wish Carla Gugino had more screen time. She was amazing and pretty badass too. But whatever time she had in the movie, she made sure the audience noticed.
Dwayne Johnson looked awkward in some parts of the film. Other than that, he was good. The action scenes were well suited for a person like him who came from a wrestling background. He is a bankable actor too. I found out that his movies, well, most of them, earned significant sums of money. There were only a couple that didn't quite make a hit. Race to Witch Mountain did well in the box office, as it should since it really was a very entertaining movie.
I remember wanting to watch the movie when it came out back in 2009, but didn't get the chance to because I was a little kid with limited money. I sort of regret not seeing it on the big screen only because I believe I would appreciate the effects and scenes a lot better. Having said that, I had a great experience watching this movie.
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