I've heard a lot of things about this particular movie, and all of them have been really positive. After watching it, I'll have to join the bandwagon of praise for the movie because this movie was painfully hilarious. Get Him to the Greek was a 2010 comedy starring Jonah Hill, Russell Brand, Elisabeth Moss, Rose Byrne, and P. Diddy. It was directed by Nichloas Stoller, the same guy who directed Forgetting Sarah Marshall, a story written by Jason Segel.
At the beginning of the movie, I thought it was going to be similar to the Harold and Kumar plot where they have to be somewhere and everything that could go wrong would go wrong. It was not the case, although it did have several detours. Although it did have drugs in it so there were still similarities. It was more of a journey, getting from one place to another, doing extreme things along the way.
It was like the exploration of the life of the rich and the famous, and how money always does not equate with happiness. It's a cheesy idea, a cliche actually. However, the way they told the story was not a cliche at all, it was funny, witty and at times raunchy. There were a couple of times when it lost some the humor and became just a bit boring, but those were just a couple of short scenes. Throughout the movie I was trying not to laugh hard as to not look weird, but failed miserably. It had some pretty funny lines. My favorite will be the one between P. Diddy and Jonah Hill when they were talking about "mind fucking"
P. Diddy/Sergio: I'm mind fucking you right now.
Jonah Hill/Aaron: I hope you're using a condom cause I have a dirty mind
What made it even better was the look P. Diddy gave Jonah Hill after. I just had to laugh at that scenes. It was insanely funny. That's one of the best parts of the movie.
It even had a heartwarming side to it as it tackled a person getting back up after experiencing failures/disappointments. It wasn't just about the career, but also family and life in general. It showed how people could pull through despite facing obstacles. I guess that's the human, emotional element of the movie. I guess every movie has to have that bit of drama. It's all good though since they utilized this dramatic notion to open up more opportunities to make people laugh and enjoy the movie without losing the authenticity of these emotions.
I've never seen any movies of Russell Brand before, and I only knew him as the guy who married Katy Perry. I think he was the biggest surprise here for me. He's a crazy man and he took the film and tainted it with his own brand of comedy, and that was a very good thing. However, Jonah Hill didn't let Brand outshine him and he held his own mixing his kind of comedy. As well know, Jonah Hill's one of the best people to go to for comedies. He just does it effortlessly and it's all natural for him to do or say things that make people laugh.
People should join the bandwagon and just watch this hilarious movie. Now I really have to watch Forgetting Sarah Marshall, the movie that helped pave the way for the creation of Take Him to the Greek. It was a lot of fun to watch it and a perfect way to enjoy a night.
June 12, 2012
June 11, 2012
My Mom's New Boyfriend
My Mom's New Boyfriend, also known as Homeland Security or My Spy in other countries was a 2009 movie starring Antonio Banderas, Meg Ryan, Colin Hanks, and Selma Blair. I wanted to watch a light, laid-back movie after watching several big, heavy movies so I went with this one. I'd say I made a good choice.
It's tagged as a romantic comedy but after watching it I think it's more of a comedy action movie. Comedy because the movie was mad funny. I actually didn't expect it to be all that funny but right from the beginning I was already laughing. Some of the lines in the movie were just too hilarious. Action because it had a heist element in it, and the characters in the movie were involved with the federal offices. It actually revolved around the heist so it had this action element to it.
I actually quite enjoyed this movie. It's not something I would normally watch, but it was entertaining and I'm glad I saw it. It's not at the level of Hangover funny, and not at a level of James Bond action, but the combination they did worked out just fine. I had my doubts with the movie, especially since it was tagged as a rom-com. I expected an extremely cheesy, corny movie, but the movie was nothing like that. Actually the label of it being a rom-com is a little bit misleading, I think. Or if it really was a rom-com, it's not the typical rom-com. Well, I wouldn't really be sure, I've only seen a few movies in that genre.
It was really weird seeing Meg Ryan in that kind of role. It's nothing like her previous roles and she was the best element of the show. She was crazy weird, in the best way possible, and hilariously appealing. She's just one versatile actress. I wish they kept her character that way though, but I guess she had to turn into a vulnerable woman for the romance aspect of the movie to work. This is the most laid back character of Colin Hanks out of all his movies that I've seen. Considering he's a federal agent, his character was very light, sarcastic at times, but pretty laid back. The relationship his character had with Meg Ryan's character is the core of all things funny in this movie. Antonio Banderas also gave a fine performance and his character caused some surprises even I didn't expect. I wish Selma Blair was allowed to do more things thought. I felt like her potential in the movie could have been maximized more, but she did well for what she was given. But yeah, I definitely wanted to see more from her.
Overall, I enjoyed watching the movie. It only received a limited release but I wish people bought the DVD and saw it. It was a lot better than I expected, considering all my doubts in the movie. If you find a copy of it, go watch it. It's pretty good. It was a light, laid back enjoyable movie.
You an follow me on twitter @sirlfimreviewer or email me at mfilmreviewer@yahoo.com. You can also follow this blog by checking the right side of the page.
It's tagged as a romantic comedy but after watching it I think it's more of a comedy action movie. Comedy because the movie was mad funny. I actually didn't expect it to be all that funny but right from the beginning I was already laughing. Some of the lines in the movie were just too hilarious. Action because it had a heist element in it, and the characters in the movie were involved with the federal offices. It actually revolved around the heist so it had this action element to it.
I actually quite enjoyed this movie. It's not something I would normally watch, but it was entertaining and I'm glad I saw it. It's not at the level of Hangover funny, and not at a level of James Bond action, but the combination they did worked out just fine. I had my doubts with the movie, especially since it was tagged as a rom-com. I expected an extremely cheesy, corny movie, but the movie was nothing like that. Actually the label of it being a rom-com is a little bit misleading, I think. Or if it really was a rom-com, it's not the typical rom-com. Well, I wouldn't really be sure, I've only seen a few movies in that genre.
It was really weird seeing Meg Ryan in that kind of role. It's nothing like her previous roles and she was the best element of the show. She was crazy weird, in the best way possible, and hilariously appealing. She's just one versatile actress. I wish they kept her character that way though, but I guess she had to turn into a vulnerable woman for the romance aspect of the movie to work. This is the most laid back character of Colin Hanks out of all his movies that I've seen. Considering he's a federal agent, his character was very light, sarcastic at times, but pretty laid back. The relationship his character had with Meg Ryan's character is the core of all things funny in this movie. Antonio Banderas also gave a fine performance and his character caused some surprises even I didn't expect. I wish Selma Blair was allowed to do more things thought. I felt like her potential in the movie could have been maximized more, but she did well for what she was given. But yeah, I definitely wanted to see more from her.
Overall, I enjoyed watching the movie. It only received a limited release but I wish people bought the DVD and saw it. It was a lot better than I expected, considering all my doubts in the movie. If you find a copy of it, go watch it. It's pretty good. It was a light, laid back enjoyable movie.
You an follow me on twitter @sirlfimreviewer or email me at mfilmreviewer@yahoo.com. You can also follow this blog by checking the right side of the page.
V For Vendetta
This movie had a very different appeal starting with its main character: a twisted, emotionally scarred victim of violence and inhumane activities. The supposedly hero went through a phase of pure suffering which led to anger and a desire for revenge. It's not the typical saving the world hero using powers. It was more of liberating a nation suppressed by an atrocious government.It's a hero formed by the experiences he went through and his thirst to get back to those who wronged him. In the process, he united the people to ensure real democracy.
The movie had a strong powerful message. It was a whole social commentary to some of things wrong in our society. It talks about how people who are different are ostracized for being different. It also tackled just how dirty politics could get. It's a depiction of the horrors of having a totalitarian society, however some of things seen could easily be associated with other forms of government. It had heavy subjects which they tackled with sensitivity, relaying a message that people often take for granted. I particularly appreciated how they handled these issues, combining it with a dark hero or villain, depending on your perspective.
There were also the issues of freedom of speech and political activism, the main issues of the government. We always hear horrendous stories how people are killed or tortured for being against the government, and sad to say, that does happen. That's I think what the movie demonstrated, the insanity behind kidnapping activists just to silence them and their efforts. However, in this movie, they weren't silenced as people either pursued what they started, or sought revenge.
It's a movie about transformations, personally, socially, or nationally. It transformed a man to a creature of vengeance, a man who would go all the way to kill the people who hurt him. There's also a transformation of people in terms of beliefs, how people's perspectives change in the face of new information and evidences. It's a story of a nation who fought for their freedom after a long time of beings slaves to their government. It's a political movie more than anything else I think, politics in all levels.
Plus, the cast! These talented actors took on the challenge and delivered strong performances. They were all invested in each of their portrayals and they captured the essence of their characters. Natalie Portman's Evey was delightful to watch just because her persona as Evey was believable in everything she did. Hugo Weaving's V was also outstanding. He still managed to shine and exude emotions with that mask on his face. Stephen Rea and Stephen Fry were the best supporting characters. They just had what the characters they were playing needed.
Given all these dimensions, I thoroughly enjoyed watching V for Vendetta. It's a highly intelligent movie dissecting different aspects of society. The quality of the movie was superb and the idea behind it is extraordinary. Part of what impressed me was the collection of social commentaries that is up-to-date to what the world is currently witnessing. The cast did justice to the vision of the movie, and that's all we can ask for.
The movie had a strong powerful message. It was a whole social commentary to some of things wrong in our society. It talks about how people who are different are ostracized for being different. It also tackled just how dirty politics could get. It's a depiction of the horrors of having a totalitarian society, however some of things seen could easily be associated with other forms of government. It had heavy subjects which they tackled with sensitivity, relaying a message that people often take for granted. I particularly appreciated how they handled these issues, combining it with a dark hero or villain, depending on your perspective.
There were also the issues of freedom of speech and political activism, the main issues of the government. We always hear horrendous stories how people are killed or tortured for being against the government, and sad to say, that does happen. That's I think what the movie demonstrated, the insanity behind kidnapping activists just to silence them and their efforts. However, in this movie, they weren't silenced as people either pursued what they started, or sought revenge.
It's a movie about transformations, personally, socially, or nationally. It transformed a man to a creature of vengeance, a man who would go all the way to kill the people who hurt him. There's also a transformation of people in terms of beliefs, how people's perspectives change in the face of new information and evidences. It's a story of a nation who fought for their freedom after a long time of beings slaves to their government. It's a political movie more than anything else I think, politics in all levels.
Plus, the cast! These talented actors took on the challenge and delivered strong performances. They were all invested in each of their portrayals and they captured the essence of their characters. Natalie Portman's Evey was delightful to watch just because her persona as Evey was believable in everything she did. Hugo Weaving's V was also outstanding. He still managed to shine and exude emotions with that mask on his face. Stephen Rea and Stephen Fry were the best supporting characters. They just had what the characters they were playing needed.
Given all these dimensions, I thoroughly enjoyed watching V for Vendetta. It's a highly intelligent movie dissecting different aspects of society. The quality of the movie was superb and the idea behind it is extraordinary. Part of what impressed me was the collection of social commentaries that is up-to-date to what the world is currently witnessing. The cast did justice to the vision of the movie, and that's all we can ask for.
June 10, 2012
Red Eye
I did not know what to expect when I decided to watch this movie. I've never heard of it until I saw it on Wikipedia. I probably would have just ignored it or read along but when I clicked on it, I became very interested. To start off, Rachel McAdams and Cillian Murphy starred in it. Brian Cox was also part of the cast, and I've watched several of his films and I just admire the caliber of his acting. Jayma Mays was also part of it and it's hilarious that her character here had a some sort of resemblance to the character she currently plays in the television show Glee. However, the most interesting part for me was the supporting role of Colby Donaldson, probably most known for competing in the television show Survivor three times. He also hosts Top Guns now so you may be familiar with him. As a huge Colby fan who rooted for him in all three seasons he competed in survivor, I immediately wanted to watch the movie.
I did my research before watching the movie and I found out that the movie was successful, critically and commercially. I then knew I was in for a treat. I knew it was going to be a good movie and after seeing it I can now confirm it. What I liked about it was how it brought me back a few years earlier. It was released in 2005 but it's already quite different from the movies we have. For starters, the phones they were using weren't iPhones or Blackberrys (feels weird typing Blackberrys but I suppose Blackberries would be totally different now). More than that, it's the whole vibe of it, the musical score, the cinematography, it resembles a different era, I felt. It was a good reminder of how movies were just a few years ago.
The performances of the cast sent chills through my whole body. Rachel McAdams portrayed anxiety, desperation, anger, helplessness, anger, but she did it in a very calm, believable manner. She was frantic without necessarily shouting. She just had this balance that allowed the audience to empathize with her. Cillian Murphy was one creepy disgusting killer and the way he portrayed it, and voiced it was just frightening. Hell, I would run the other way if that person just stared at me. he was freaky which is exactly what the character entailed.
The supporting characters did just well. Brian Cox's body of work never ceases to amaze me. He managed to be another person yet again. Now I look forward to watching his other films simply because he is one amazing actor. It feels like watching him do his thing should be considered a privilege. Jayma Mays was perfect for the role of Cynthia. Jittery but collected. She actually brought a sense of lightness in this thriller. Let me just include this here, I wonder if Colby would continue acting. Judging his performance in this movie, I could envision him in badass roles, like Jason Statham type of roles. Maybe I'm just biased cause I'm a huge Donaldson fan.
The story was simple but well-executed. Given the premise, I could see why it was such a short movie. It flowed well though and although it moved at a slow pace, the movie never got boring. It took its time, and utilized the plane as a location. The passengers on it even played roles even if they really weren't part of it. The kid, Rebecca, would be my favorite among the passengers cause she's one smart kid.
This thriller wasn't the horror type of thriller. It was more of a what's-gonna-happen next/action thriller. It had excitement, suspense and passion. It was creative as well in terms of finding ways to let the people know of the danger that Murphy's character could cause. I really liked it, a lot more than I thought I would. Maybe it's because I didn't go through it with any expectations, and the film just gave me a great movie experience.
I did my research before watching the movie and I found out that the movie was successful, critically and commercially. I then knew I was in for a treat. I knew it was going to be a good movie and after seeing it I can now confirm it. What I liked about it was how it brought me back a few years earlier. It was released in 2005 but it's already quite different from the movies we have. For starters, the phones they were using weren't iPhones or Blackberrys (feels weird typing Blackberrys but I suppose Blackberries would be totally different now). More than that, it's the whole vibe of it, the musical score, the cinematography, it resembles a different era, I felt. It was a good reminder of how movies were just a few years ago.
The performances of the cast sent chills through my whole body. Rachel McAdams portrayed anxiety, desperation, anger, helplessness, anger, but she did it in a very calm, believable manner. She was frantic without necessarily shouting. She just had this balance that allowed the audience to empathize with her. Cillian Murphy was one creepy disgusting killer and the way he portrayed it, and voiced it was just frightening. Hell, I would run the other way if that person just stared at me. he was freaky which is exactly what the character entailed.
The supporting characters did just well. Brian Cox's body of work never ceases to amaze me. He managed to be another person yet again. Now I look forward to watching his other films simply because he is one amazing actor. It feels like watching him do his thing should be considered a privilege. Jayma Mays was perfect for the role of Cynthia. Jittery but collected. She actually brought a sense of lightness in this thriller. Let me just include this here, I wonder if Colby would continue acting. Judging his performance in this movie, I could envision him in badass roles, like Jason Statham type of roles. Maybe I'm just biased cause I'm a huge Donaldson fan.
The story was simple but well-executed. Given the premise, I could see why it was such a short movie. It flowed well though and although it moved at a slow pace, the movie never got boring. It took its time, and utilized the plane as a location. The passengers on it even played roles even if they really weren't part of it. The kid, Rebecca, would be my favorite among the passengers cause she's one smart kid.
This thriller wasn't the horror type of thriller. It was more of a what's-gonna-happen next/action thriller. It had excitement, suspense and passion. It was creative as well in terms of finding ways to let the people know of the danger that Murphy's character could cause. I really liked it, a lot more than I thought I would. Maybe it's because I didn't go through it with any expectations, and the film just gave me a great movie experience.
June 09, 2012
The Italian Job
I love a great heist movie. The only thing I love more is a great heist movie with vengeance. That's how The Italian Job went down. It started with a heist, and ended with another one, both being equally crafty. What I appreciate about heist movies are how the craft itself comes into play. I'm not saying I approve of people stealing, but in terms of movies and entertainment, I like seeing and witnessing how much thought was involved.
The Italian Job was a 2003 movie starring Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, Edward Norton, Jason Statham, Mos Def, and Seth Green, with a special participation of Donald Sutherland. I'll tell you ow that I can't separate Donald Sutherland from President Snow of The Hunger Games now. The movie was directed by F. Gary Gray. It was well-received by critics and movie-goers. I guess the craftsmanship raked in the audience.
I liked the idea behind it, stealing without using guns or any weaponry, while aside from a few explosives. Just flat out stealing by only utilizing one's intelligence. It's smart and more deceiving that way. However, for the most part, the characters relied on their own skills and abilities to pull the robbery. Each one had a specific role and it all played well. Of course since this is fiction, all characters were created to complement each other, and each was given sufficient proficiency in whatever skill they got.
The vengeance part of it was a little bit downplayed, I think. But the movie made it clear, it was not about getting back what was stolen from them. It was more of doing it as honoring the man that brought them all together. The presence Ukrainian mob was a little too much if you ask me, but I guess it served as part of sealing the deal. The gang never had to get their hands dirty to extract vengeance, they got the money without guns, and they got rid off their enemy without guns. Well, the mob definitely has guns but they weren't part of the gang.
I just read that there have been plans to do a sequel, The Brazilian Job. I think that would be amazing if they had all the right materials and if the right people get involved. I would like to see the cast return to validate the continuation of the story. Upon reading it, I even had a few ideas how the movie could go. There are a lot of possibilities but I can;t be sure the sequel will push through given that it has been in development since 2004. It will be a shame if they don't push through with it.
The Italian Job was a 2003 movie starring Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, Edward Norton, Jason Statham, Mos Def, and Seth Green, with a special participation of Donald Sutherland. I'll tell you ow that I can't separate Donald Sutherland from President Snow of The Hunger Games now. The movie was directed by F. Gary Gray. It was well-received by critics and movie-goers. I guess the craftsmanship raked in the audience.
I liked the idea behind it, stealing without using guns or any weaponry, while aside from a few explosives. Just flat out stealing by only utilizing one's intelligence. It's smart and more deceiving that way. However, for the most part, the characters relied on their own skills and abilities to pull the robbery. Each one had a specific role and it all played well. Of course since this is fiction, all characters were created to complement each other, and each was given sufficient proficiency in whatever skill they got.
The vengeance part of it was a little bit downplayed, I think. But the movie made it clear, it was not about getting back what was stolen from them. It was more of doing it as honoring the man that brought them all together. The presence Ukrainian mob was a little too much if you ask me, but I guess it served as part of sealing the deal. The gang never had to get their hands dirty to extract vengeance, they got the money without guns, and they got rid off their enemy without guns. Well, the mob definitely has guns but they weren't part of the gang.
I just read that there have been plans to do a sequel, The Brazilian Job. I think that would be amazing if they had all the right materials and if the right people get involved. I would like to see the cast return to validate the continuation of the story. Upon reading it, I even had a few ideas how the movie could go. There are a lot of possibilities but I can;t be sure the sequel will push through given that it has been in development since 2004. It will be a shame if they don't push through with it.
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