6-1-11
International Poster and Official trailer added as Sony has pulled down there Redband Traier.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
[Trailer] The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo Remake
6-1-11
International Poster and Official trailer added as Sony has pulled down there Redband Traier.
MOVIE REVIEW: THE HANGOVER PART 2
IN THEATERS
THE HANGOVER PART 2
A modest bachelor brunch devolves into a wild weekend in Bangkok when the gang travels to Thailand to see Stu get married. Still traumatized by memories of the Las Vegas fiasco, Stu (Ed Helms) vows to keep his pre-wedding partying to the bare minimum. But when Phil (Bradley Cooper), Doug (Justin Bartha), and Alan (Zach Galifianakis) show up, Stu's low-key brunch makes their previous Vegas fiasco look like a family trip to Disneyland. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Todd Phillips
Cast: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, Ken Jeong
Release Date: May 26, 2011
Rated R for pervasive language, strong sexual content including graphic nudity, drug use and brief violent images
Genres: Comedy
Review:
“Classic Stu.” That statement should tell you everything you need to know about this sequel. Todd Phillips doesn’t raise his game in this sequel, instead he just changes the background and changes a few things. Déjà vu all over again. I’ll admit I laughed during a parts of films, there are a few high points that reach a manic level but it never sustains it, but my overall enjoyment of the film was hindered by the fact that this is about as lazy a follow up as you can imagine. The writing team seems to have literally taken the original script and just changed names and places. Galifianakis is grating this go around and just feels like he’s trying too hard. Ed Helms is given more to do and his comedic talents are given more room this go around. Bradley Cooper is just as douche baggy as he was the first time and doesn’t do more than he needs too. Ken Jeong is fun but the expanded role makes his one note character more obvious. Cameos and scenes don’t surprise because you are just waiting for them because Phillips telegraphs them to such an extent only a simpleton would be waiting for them. Hangovers suck especially when you recount the same night over and over again.
C-
THE HANGOVER PART 2
A modest bachelor brunch devolves into a wild weekend in Bangkok when the gang travels to Thailand to see Stu get married. Still traumatized by memories of the Las Vegas fiasco, Stu (Ed Helms) vows to keep his pre-wedding partying to the bare minimum. But when Phil (Bradley Cooper), Doug (Justin Bartha), and Alan (Zach Galifianakis) show up, Stu's low-key brunch makes their previous Vegas fiasco look like a family trip to Disneyland. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Todd Phillips
Cast: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis, Justin Bartha, Ken Jeong
Release Date: May 26, 2011
Rated R for pervasive language, strong sexual content including graphic nudity, drug use and brief violent images
Genres: Comedy
Review:
“Classic Stu.” That statement should tell you everything you need to know about this sequel. Todd Phillips doesn’t raise his game in this sequel, instead he just changes the background and changes a few things. Déjà vu all over again. I’ll admit I laughed during a parts of films, there are a few high points that reach a manic level but it never sustains it, but my overall enjoyment of the film was hindered by the fact that this is about as lazy a follow up as you can imagine. The writing team seems to have literally taken the original script and just changed names and places. Galifianakis is grating this go around and just feels like he’s trying too hard. Ed Helms is given more to do and his comedic talents are given more room this go around. Bradley Cooper is just as douche baggy as he was the first time and doesn’t do more than he needs too. Ken Jeong is fun but the expanded role makes his one note character more obvious. Cameos and scenes don’t surprise because you are just waiting for them because Phillips telegraphs them to such an extent only a simpleton would be waiting for them. Hangovers suck especially when you recount the same night over and over again.
C-
Sunday, May 22, 2011
MOVIE REVIEW: PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES
IN THEATERS
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES
Flamboyant seafarer Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) lands himself in a bit of a bind after being lured onto Blackbeard's (Ian McShane) ship by enigmatic siren Angelica (Penélope Cruz), and forced to seek out the Fountain of Youth. Trapped on the Queen Anne's Revenge with the most nefarious pirate in history, Captain Jack reflects on his past with the elusive Angelica while embarking on his wildest adventure to date. With shambling zombies on deck and gorgeous mermaids beckoning sailors into the icy waters below, this time Jack Sparrow has his work cut out for him. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Rob Marshall
Cast: Johnny Depp, Penélope Cruz, Geoffrey Rush, Ian McShane, Stephen Graham
Release Date: May 20, 2011
Rated PG-13 for Intense sequences of action/adventure violence, some frightening images, sensuality and innuendo
Genres: Action/Adventure, Comedy
Review:
I remember watching the first Pirates of The Caribbean, enjoying it mostly, but wondering why it was so bloody long. The sequels all followed suit but they were fun, convoluted for sure, and propped up with strong performances from all involved with Geoffrey Rush and Johnny Deep being my personal favorites. A trilogy is typically a good stopping point, by the third turn it’s usually a fair bet the characters and story have been expend and there’s very little left to show the audience. In lieu of a massive reinvention there’s really no point for another entry. On Stranger Tides should have been called the Quest for Treasure, yours. This entry is lifeless boring and overlong. A massive list of characters and storylines over powers the film while adding very little to the actual story. The story itself is straightforward but terribly convoluted at the same time. It’s a jumble of mythos, mermaids and zombies. None of which add any semblance of meat to the film. Instead we are given action set piece 1, 2, 3, interlude, 4, 5….rinse and repeat. Director Rob Marshall does his best but he’s entirely out of his element and it shows. To his credit most of the action sequences are impressively staged and occasionally epic but shocking lacking in any actual fun. I can say I chuckled once or twice throughout the entire film. The cast seems equally disinterested in the film and their roles, aside from the usual stalwarts. Johnny Depp is front and center, he does an admirable job but there are occasions were you can tell he’s just phoning it end. Geoffrey Rush is always fun in this role and he chews every scene with great vigor. Ian McShane turns in a decent performance which isn’t a surprise since the role is just an extension his Deadwood character on a boat. A terribly pregnant Penélope Cruz stays out of the way for the most part since she saddled with on of the many pointless subplots. The main crux of this film is finding the Fountain of Youth something which I doubt this franchise as a whole can ever find.
D
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES
Flamboyant seafarer Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) lands himself in a bit of a bind after being lured onto Blackbeard's (Ian McShane) ship by enigmatic siren Angelica (Penélope Cruz), and forced to seek out the Fountain of Youth. Trapped on the Queen Anne's Revenge with the most nefarious pirate in history, Captain Jack reflects on his past with the elusive Angelica while embarking on his wildest adventure to date. With shambling zombies on deck and gorgeous mermaids beckoning sailors into the icy waters below, this time Jack Sparrow has his work cut out for him. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Rob Marshall
Cast: Johnny Depp, Penélope Cruz, Geoffrey Rush, Ian McShane, Stephen Graham
Release Date: May 20, 2011
Rated PG-13 for Intense sequences of action/adventure violence, some frightening images, sensuality and innuendo
Genres: Action/Adventure, Comedy
Review:
I remember watching the first Pirates of The Caribbean, enjoying it mostly, but wondering why it was so bloody long. The sequels all followed suit but they were fun, convoluted for sure, and propped up with strong performances from all involved with Geoffrey Rush and Johnny Deep being my personal favorites. A trilogy is typically a good stopping point, by the third turn it’s usually a fair bet the characters and story have been expend and there’s very little left to show the audience. In lieu of a massive reinvention there’s really no point for another entry. On Stranger Tides should have been called the Quest for Treasure, yours. This entry is lifeless boring and overlong. A massive list of characters and storylines over powers the film while adding very little to the actual story. The story itself is straightforward but terribly convoluted at the same time. It’s a jumble of mythos, mermaids and zombies. None of which add any semblance of meat to the film. Instead we are given action set piece 1, 2, 3, interlude, 4, 5….rinse and repeat. Director Rob Marshall does his best but he’s entirely out of his element and it shows. To his credit most of the action sequences are impressively staged and occasionally epic but shocking lacking in any actual fun. I can say I chuckled once or twice throughout the entire film. The cast seems equally disinterested in the film and their roles, aside from the usual stalwarts. Johnny Depp is front and center, he does an admirable job but there are occasions were you can tell he’s just phoning it end. Geoffrey Rush is always fun in this role and he chews every scene with great vigor. Ian McShane turns in a decent performance which isn’t a surprise since the role is just an extension his Deadwood character on a boat. A terribly pregnant Penélope Cruz stays out of the way for the most part since she saddled with on of the many pointless subplots. The main crux of this film is finding the Fountain of Youth something which I doubt this franchise as a whole can ever find.
D
Saturday, May 21, 2011
MOVIE REVIEW: THE MECHANIC
THE MECHANIC
Seasoned hitman Arthur Bishop (Jason Statham) sets out to avenge the brutal murder of his mentor, Harry (Donald Sutherland), and finds himself joined by Harry's vengeful son (Ben Foster), who is eager to follow in his late father's footsteps, in this remake of the 1972 action thriller starring Charles Bronson and Jan-Michael Vincent. Harry taught Arthur how to be a detached killer who always hits his mark. Now Harry is gone, and for the first time in Arthur's career it's about to get personal. As lone-wolf assassin Arthur prepares to hunt down Harry's killers, he is approached by his fallen mentor's vengeful son, Steve, who is eager to take up the lethal tools of his father's trade. Unadept at working with a partner yet compelled to help Steve carry on the family tradition, Arthur agrees to take him on as a protégé. Later, the duo begins to methodically eliminate their targets, forging a partnership born of blood with each new hit. The closer Arthur and Steve get to the name at the top of their list, however, the more apparent it becomes that his job will be anything but business as usual. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Simon West
Cast: Jason Statham, Ben Foster, Tony Goldwyn, Donald Sutherland, Jeff Chase
Release Date: Jan 28, 2011
Rated R for strong brutal violence throughout, language, some sexual content and nudity
Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min.
Genres: Action/Adventure, Suspense/Thriller
Review:
To say this film feels familiar is a tad of an understatement, not just because it’s a remake of the 70’s Charles Bronson film of the same name. Jason Statham has made a career of churning out mindless action flicks. The quality of these films varies wildly but Statham is consistent and seems more than happy to stick to the formula. The Mechanic, directed by Michael Bay Jr., Simon West, is a hollow superficial ride which never tries to be more than it sets out to be. It’s bloody occasionally gory sprinkled with nudity and sex. Ultimately it’s easily digestible and enjoyable for the most part. At times it feels like this would have been perfectly at home in the 80’s which a plot that feel like nothing more than excuse to propel the action. There’s a tad bit of pathos there enough to make it feel like they could go deeper into these characters but nobody involved, outside of Ben Foster, seems terribly interested in doing so. Jason Statham delivers his usual tough guy persona, gravelly voiced with the perfect amount of stubble. By this point Statham can play this type of character in his sleep, so much so that it leaves you wondering if he ever gets confused as to which movie he’s actually shooting at anyone time. Ben Foster brings a bit more depth to his character. Foster gives his character greater depth, showcasing the simmering tortured persona of his character. That being said it’s never explored to great depth, along with the fact that the character becomes a master hitman in the span of a few days. These aren’t the kind of films that are terribly interested in that kind of stuff and that’s alright as long as they deliver enjoyable action set pieces. The Mechanic has plenty to like with inventive settings and impressive looking locals. If there is one nitpick it’s that the last big action piece leaves you feeling a tad disappointed since the film seems to be building to a nice action crescendo.
C+
Seasoned hitman Arthur Bishop (Jason Statham) sets out to avenge the brutal murder of his mentor, Harry (Donald Sutherland), and finds himself joined by Harry's vengeful son (Ben Foster), who is eager to follow in his late father's footsteps, in this remake of the 1972 action thriller starring Charles Bronson and Jan-Michael Vincent. Harry taught Arthur how to be a detached killer who always hits his mark. Now Harry is gone, and for the first time in Arthur's career it's about to get personal. As lone-wolf assassin Arthur prepares to hunt down Harry's killers, he is approached by his fallen mentor's vengeful son, Steve, who is eager to take up the lethal tools of his father's trade. Unadept at working with a partner yet compelled to help Steve carry on the family tradition, Arthur agrees to take him on as a protégé. Later, the duo begins to methodically eliminate their targets, forging a partnership born of blood with each new hit. The closer Arthur and Steve get to the name at the top of their list, however, the more apparent it becomes that his job will be anything but business as usual. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Simon West
Cast: Jason Statham, Ben Foster, Tony Goldwyn, Donald Sutherland, Jeff Chase
Release Date: Jan 28, 2011
Rated R for strong brutal violence throughout, language, some sexual content and nudity
Runtime: 1 hr. 40 min.
Genres: Action/Adventure, Suspense/Thriller
Review:
To say this film feels familiar is a tad of an understatement, not just because it’s a remake of the 70’s Charles Bronson film of the same name. Jason Statham has made a career of churning out mindless action flicks. The quality of these films varies wildly but Statham is consistent and seems more than happy to stick to the formula. The Mechanic, directed by Michael Bay Jr., Simon West, is a hollow superficial ride which never tries to be more than it sets out to be. It’s bloody occasionally gory sprinkled with nudity and sex. Ultimately it’s easily digestible and enjoyable for the most part. At times it feels like this would have been perfectly at home in the 80’s which a plot that feel like nothing more than excuse to propel the action. There’s a tad bit of pathos there enough to make it feel like they could go deeper into these characters but nobody involved, outside of Ben Foster, seems terribly interested in doing so. Jason Statham delivers his usual tough guy persona, gravelly voiced with the perfect amount of stubble. By this point Statham can play this type of character in his sleep, so much so that it leaves you wondering if he ever gets confused as to which movie he’s actually shooting at anyone time. Ben Foster brings a bit more depth to his character. Foster gives his character greater depth, showcasing the simmering tortured persona of his character. That being said it’s never explored to great depth, along with the fact that the character becomes a master hitman in the span of a few days. These aren’t the kind of films that are terribly interested in that kind of stuff and that’s alright as long as they deliver enjoyable action set pieces. The Mechanic has plenty to like with inventive settings and impressive looking locals. If there is one nitpick it’s that the last big action piece leaves you feeling a tad disappointed since the film seems to be building to a nice action crescendo.
C+
MOVIE REVIEW: THE RITE
THE RITE
Inspired by author Matt Baglio's nonfiction book of the same name, director Mikael Håfström's supernatural thriller traces the experiences of a young seminary student who discovers the true power of faith after being drafted into the Vatican's Exorcism School and confronted by the forces of darkness. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Mikael Håfström
Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Colin O'Donoghue, Alice Braga, Ciarán Hinds, Toby Jones, Rutger Hauer
Release Date: Jan 28, 2011
Rated PG-13 for Disturbing thematic material, sexual references, language, frightening images and violence
Runtime: 1 hr. 52 min.
Genres: Drama
Review:
Anthony Hopkins’ character asks, early on in this insipid and horribly clichéd film, “What were you expecting? Spinning heads and pea soup?” At that point in the film, that’s exactly what I wasn’t hoping for and with such a garish dismissal of the usual exorcist genre tropes it leaves you wondering if perhaps we’ll see something new and fresh. Sadly, it doesn’t take The Rite long to fall into an all too familiar pattern. A young priest lacking faith, an elder priest who’s been battling the devil for his entire life, standard contortions and demonic sounding voices, etc, etc…. Throw in some shoddy and thoroughly unnecessary CGI just for good measure. So if we don’t get a fresh take on this genre then at the very least the film should frighten us. Even here it fails, using the cheapest of scares while never getting within shouting distance of any sort of tension. The character’s barely register and carry all the emotional weight of a paper bag. Colin O'Donoghue doesn’t bring much to the table and is instantly forgettable. Alice Braga is thoroughly self serious throughout while being given very little to do. Anthony Hopkins seems to sleep walk through most of his scenes only to pull out a faux version of his Lecter character in the final act which borders on parody. Strangely the only actor who brings any level of creepiness is Rutger Hauer who’s in the film for a total of 5 minutes. Director Mikael Håfström tries to dress this all up as much as possible but in the end it’s like putting make up on a hog.
D-
Inspired by author Matt Baglio's nonfiction book of the same name, director Mikael Håfström's supernatural thriller traces the experiences of a young seminary student who discovers the true power of faith after being drafted into the Vatican's Exorcism School and confronted by the forces of darkness. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Mikael Håfström
Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Colin O'Donoghue, Alice Braga, Ciarán Hinds, Toby Jones, Rutger Hauer
Release Date: Jan 28, 2011
Rated PG-13 for Disturbing thematic material, sexual references, language, frightening images and violence
Runtime: 1 hr. 52 min.
Genres: Drama
Review:
Anthony Hopkins’ character asks, early on in this insipid and horribly clichéd film, “What were you expecting? Spinning heads and pea soup?” At that point in the film, that’s exactly what I wasn’t hoping for and with such a garish dismissal of the usual exorcist genre tropes it leaves you wondering if perhaps we’ll see something new and fresh. Sadly, it doesn’t take The Rite long to fall into an all too familiar pattern. A young priest lacking faith, an elder priest who’s been battling the devil for his entire life, standard contortions and demonic sounding voices, etc, etc…. Throw in some shoddy and thoroughly unnecessary CGI just for good measure. So if we don’t get a fresh take on this genre then at the very least the film should frighten us. Even here it fails, using the cheapest of scares while never getting within shouting distance of any sort of tension. The character’s barely register and carry all the emotional weight of a paper bag. Colin O'Donoghue doesn’t bring much to the table and is instantly forgettable. Alice Braga is thoroughly self serious throughout while being given very little to do. Anthony Hopkins seems to sleep walk through most of his scenes only to pull out a faux version of his Lecter character in the final act which borders on parody. Strangely the only actor who brings any level of creepiness is Rutger Hauer who’s in the film for a total of 5 minutes. Director Mikael Håfström tries to dress this all up as much as possible but in the end it’s like putting make up on a hog.
D-
Friday, May 20, 2011
Tom Hardy As Bane From The Dark Knight Rises
First image of Tom Hardy as Bane has been released and it’s an interesting shot to say the least.
Kind of a tease but enough to give you an idea of what Nolan is doing which is pretty much what’s he’s done the whole series, bring the more “comic” parts to the real world.
I personally think it's pretty cool looking but would love to get a straight up shot of him and that mask....
Kind of a tease but enough to give you an idea of what Nolan is doing which is pretty much what’s he’s done the whole series, bring the more “comic” parts to the real world.
I personally think it's pretty cool looking but would love to get a straight up shot of him and that mask....
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
[Trailer] THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN: THE SECRET OF THE UNICORN
I’ll admit that I’ve got very limited knowledge of the books this is based on. That being said with the star power behind the film (Steven Spielberg & Peter Jackson) it’s kind of hard to dismiss it.
Motion capture, Avatar aside, has been kind of hit or miss but this seems to keep with the art style of the books giving it a more stylized look than say Beowulf, A Christmas Carol or The Polar Express.
Regardless it looks like an interesting endeavor even if this teaser doesn’t really show much.
Motion capture, Avatar aside, has been kind of hit or miss but this seems to keep with the art style of the books giving it a more stylized look than say Beowulf, A Christmas Carol or The Polar Express.
Regardless it looks like an interesting endeavor even if this teaser doesn’t really show much.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
MOVIE REVIEW: BRIDESMAIDS
IN THEATERS
BRIDESMAIDS
Director Paul Feig and producer Judd Apatow team with co-writers Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo for this comedy about a devoted maid of honor whose life falls into ruin as she plans her best friend's dream wedding. Upon hearing the news that Lillian (Maya Rudolph) has gotten engaged, ecstatic Annie (Wiig) leaps at the chance to plan the perfect wedding. With the big day rapidly approaching, Annie struggles to put her romantic and financial woes aside in order to give her dearest friend a day of memories that will last a lifetime. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Paul Feig
Cast: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey
Release Date: May 13, 2011
Rated R for some strong sexuality, and language throughout
Genres: Comedy
Review:
Bridesmaid is a funny movie but it delivers a lot more than you might expect and while it might be shackled with being a “chickflick” it most avoids a lot of the worst clichés of the genre. Starting with a raucous sex scene, Bridesmaids seems like it’d settle into being a Hangover type film with women. In reality it’s something much meatier and even thoughtful. Kristen Wiig, who cowrote this film, is center stage and she truly impresses. Playing a frazzled neurotic woman who’s moments away from a nervous breakdown, she delivers the comedic portions with ease but where she’s truly shines is her ability to deal with the dramatic part. Her performance is the best thing in the film and she’s on key throughout. TV director/actor Paul Feig lets his cast do the work and kind of stays out of the way for the most part. It’s a smart move since the cast is populated with funny women who all shine with limited screen time. Melissa McCarthy is given some of the best lines in the film and leaves a strong impression. Jon Hamm and Chris O'Dowd, as the requisite romantic interest, both have limited roles but are funny with the latter being extremely charming. While the film is strong for the most part, it’s overlong and lags from time to time with the romantic subplot that feels a tad out of place. Even with those issues it’s still an impressive film that really shows off the talents of the cast, Wiig in particular.
B-
BRIDESMAIDS
Director Paul Feig and producer Judd Apatow team with co-writers Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo for this comedy about a devoted maid of honor whose life falls into ruin as she plans her best friend's dream wedding. Upon hearing the news that Lillian (Maya Rudolph) has gotten engaged, ecstatic Annie (Wiig) leaps at the chance to plan the perfect wedding. With the big day rapidly approaching, Annie struggles to put her romantic and financial woes aside in order to give her dearest friend a day of memories that will last a lifetime. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Paul Feig
Cast: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey
Release Date: May 13, 2011
Rated R for some strong sexuality, and language throughout
Genres: Comedy
Review:
Bridesmaid is a funny movie but it delivers a lot more than you might expect and while it might be shackled with being a “chickflick” it most avoids a lot of the worst clichés of the genre. Starting with a raucous sex scene, Bridesmaids seems like it’d settle into being a Hangover type film with women. In reality it’s something much meatier and even thoughtful. Kristen Wiig, who cowrote this film, is center stage and she truly impresses. Playing a frazzled neurotic woman who’s moments away from a nervous breakdown, she delivers the comedic portions with ease but where she’s truly shines is her ability to deal with the dramatic part. Her performance is the best thing in the film and she’s on key throughout. TV director/actor Paul Feig lets his cast do the work and kind of stays out of the way for the most part. It’s a smart move since the cast is populated with funny women who all shine with limited screen time. Melissa McCarthy is given some of the best lines in the film and leaves a strong impression. Jon Hamm and Chris O'Dowd, as the requisite romantic interest, both have limited roles but are funny with the latter being extremely charming. While the film is strong for the most part, it’s overlong and lags from time to time with the romantic subplot that feels a tad out of place. Even with those issues it’s still an impressive film that really shows off the talents of the cast, Wiig in particular.
B-
Friday, May 13, 2011
[Trailer] Fright Night
Trailer for the Fright Night remake has hit and it’s looks to stick fairly close to the 80’s cult classic, have no feel as to whether or not it’ll be any good……..it looks alright but can't say I saw enough to say it'll be an upgrade in anyway.
[Trailer] Horrible Bosses
From the look at this trailer it’s almost impossible to figure out how this film could disappoint.
An allstar cast, Jennifer Anniston thrown in there as well and according to chatter she might go topless...desperation anyone...
Anyway back to the movie, it looks like it'll be a more twisted version of the 80’s flick 9 to 5.
An allstar cast, Jennifer Anniston thrown in there as well and according to chatter she might go topless...desperation anyone...
Anyway back to the movie, it looks like it'll be a more twisted version of the 80’s flick 9 to 5.
TV SHOW REVIEW: NIKITA SEASON 1 (2010)
TV SHOW REVIEW: NIKITA (2010)
Nikita is a trained Assassin gone Rouge trying to stop a secret U.S. agency known only as Division for trying to requite deeply troubled teenagers and train them to be Assassins.
Starring Maggie Q, Shane West, Lyndsy Fonseca, Aaron Stanford, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley
REVIEW;
I’ll be the first to freely admit that the only reason I started watching this show was because of the endless promo of Maggie Q in a killer red bikini kicking some serious butt. I’ve had a crazy crush on Maggie Q since I first saw her in Mission Impossible 3 so I was an easy sell. All that being said, I’m no fool, this property had been done 3 times now (La Femme Nikita 1990 French original, La Femme Nikita TV series 1990s series, Point of No Return American Remake) and the chances of it doing any exciting or interesting were decidedly low. I didn’t expect much outside of some mindless entertainment. For the first handful of episodes that pretty much what it delivered, nothing terrible complex outside of a seemingly indestructible Nikita foiling Division’s plans on a weekly basis, it was enjoyable but just generic fast food. Around the mid point of the season something funny happen, the mythology of the show expanded. The supporting cast (Fonseca, West, Stanford & the wonderful Melinda Clarke) really found their footing and the characters were fleshed out. Maggie Q was totally in her element right from the start but once the story and supporting characters followed suit it become so much better. The latter half of the first season is just full of wonderful pulp melodrama and secret spy intrigue. Twist and turns abound as it all comes to a raucous finale that sets up the next season, hopefully it’s renewed, extremely well. There are a handful of drawback of course, as mentioned the start of the series is pretty formulaic even with Maggie Q strong presence and it’s the type of show that doesn’t want you to think about anything for too long otherwise you’d find plenty of logical gaps and happy coincidences to rack your brain. Then again you are watching a show that about a super secret government agency, so how hard you want to think about any of this is up to you. That being said it’s really one of those shows that surprise you as it goes on and is worth picking up whenever it hits video.
B
Nikita is a trained Assassin gone Rouge trying to stop a secret U.S. agency known only as Division for trying to requite deeply troubled teenagers and train them to be Assassins.
Starring Maggie Q, Shane West, Lyndsy Fonseca, Aaron Stanford, Melinda Clarke, Xander Berkeley
REVIEW;
I’ll be the first to freely admit that the only reason I started watching this show was because of the endless promo of Maggie Q in a killer red bikini kicking some serious butt. I’ve had a crazy crush on Maggie Q since I first saw her in Mission Impossible 3 so I was an easy sell. All that being said, I’m no fool, this property had been done 3 times now (La Femme Nikita 1990 French original, La Femme Nikita TV series 1990s series, Point of No Return American Remake) and the chances of it doing any exciting or interesting were decidedly low. I didn’t expect much outside of some mindless entertainment. For the first handful of episodes that pretty much what it delivered, nothing terrible complex outside of a seemingly indestructible Nikita foiling Division’s plans on a weekly basis, it was enjoyable but just generic fast food. Around the mid point of the season something funny happen, the mythology of the show expanded. The supporting cast (Fonseca, West, Stanford & the wonderful Melinda Clarke) really found their footing and the characters were fleshed out. Maggie Q was totally in her element right from the start but once the story and supporting characters followed suit it become so much better. The latter half of the first season is just full of wonderful pulp melodrama and secret spy intrigue. Twist and turns abound as it all comes to a raucous finale that sets up the next season, hopefully it’s renewed, extremely well. There are a handful of drawback of course, as mentioned the start of the series is pretty formulaic even with Maggie Q strong presence and it’s the type of show that doesn’t want you to think about anything for too long otherwise you’d find plenty of logical gaps and happy coincidences to rack your brain. Then again you are watching a show that about a super secret government agency, so how hard you want to think about any of this is up to you. That being said it’s really one of those shows that surprise you as it goes on and is worth picking up whenever it hits video.
B
Friday, May 6, 2011
MOVIE REVIEW: THOR 3D
IN THEATERS
THOR
Exiled to Earth after his arrogance fans the flames of an ancient conflict, The Mighty Thor (Chris Hemsworth) of Asgard discovers the meaning of humility when a powerful old foe dispatches a destructive force to crush humanity. Only when the banished prince has defeated an opponent capable of crushing him in battle will he learn what it takes to be a true leader. Anthony Hopkins}, Natalie Portman, Stellan Skarsgard, and Tadanobu Asano co-star in a comic-book adventure from acclaimed director Kenneth Branagh. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Natalie Portman, Anthony Hopkins, Stellan Skarsgård
Release Date: May 06, 2011
Rated PG-13 for intense sci-fi action/violence
Genres: Action/Adventure, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
REVIEW:
Thor is one of those properties that sounded like a looming disaster from the outset. A comic book property that included a Norse god that some how had to be meshed into an Earth setting. Hiring Kenneth Branagh, Shakespeare cinematic stalwart, to direct seemed like an April fool’s joke. This turned out to be a master stroke with Branagh in the director’s chair the story hits the screen in a believable but not overtly serious manner that’s first and foremost fun. Branagh give this property enough standard Shakespearean light turns to make the Asgard set pieces entertaining and intriguing. The earth set pieces are funny but occasionally feel flat when compared to the grandeur of Asgard. Chris Hemsworth in the title role is spot on perfect. Initially cocky rash and arrogant, Hemsworth doesn’t overplay the role and allows it to feel natural and organic. In doing so the character’s growth over the course of the story rings true, all a testament to Hemsworth’s work. The rest of the cast is fine but very few standout, mostly due to unwritten parts. Tom Hiddleston is given a fairly generic role to play as a double dealing underappreciated sibling. To Hiddleston’s credit he gives the character a bit more depth in the 3rd act. Natalie Portman is equally handcuffed by a paper thin role that’s a romantic interest simply because there must be one. Portman and Hemsworth have very little chemistry together and the entire romance feels shoehorned and forced. Thor’s Asgard cohorts, The Warriors Three and the Lady Sif, are terribly under development and underused. The film itself is strongest in the 1st and 3rd acts with a noticeable lag in middle which, unsurprisingly, Earth centered while the others are mostly set in Asgard. Still as fun mindless summer fun Thor delivers the goods more than it doesn’t.
B-
THOR
Exiled to Earth after his arrogance fans the flames of an ancient conflict, The Mighty Thor (Chris Hemsworth) of Asgard discovers the meaning of humility when a powerful old foe dispatches a destructive force to crush humanity. Only when the banished prince has defeated an opponent capable of crushing him in battle will he learn what it takes to be a true leader. Anthony Hopkins}, Natalie Portman, Stellan Skarsgard, and Tadanobu Asano co-star in a comic-book adventure from acclaimed director Kenneth Branagh. ~ Jason Buchanan, Rovi
Director: Kenneth Branagh
Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Natalie Portman, Anthony Hopkins, Stellan Skarsgård
Release Date: May 06, 2011
Rated PG-13 for intense sci-fi action/violence
Genres: Action/Adventure, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
REVIEW:
Thor is one of those properties that sounded like a looming disaster from the outset. A comic book property that included a Norse god that some how had to be meshed into an Earth setting. Hiring Kenneth Branagh, Shakespeare cinematic stalwart, to direct seemed like an April fool’s joke. This turned out to be a master stroke with Branagh in the director’s chair the story hits the screen in a believable but not overtly serious manner that’s first and foremost fun. Branagh give this property enough standard Shakespearean light turns to make the Asgard set pieces entertaining and intriguing. The earth set pieces are funny but occasionally feel flat when compared to the grandeur of Asgard. Chris Hemsworth in the title role is spot on perfect. Initially cocky rash and arrogant, Hemsworth doesn’t overplay the role and allows it to feel natural and organic. In doing so the character’s growth over the course of the story rings true, all a testament to Hemsworth’s work. The rest of the cast is fine but very few standout, mostly due to unwritten parts. Tom Hiddleston is given a fairly generic role to play as a double dealing underappreciated sibling. To Hiddleston’s credit he gives the character a bit more depth in the 3rd act. Natalie Portman is equally handcuffed by a paper thin role that’s a romantic interest simply because there must be one. Portman and Hemsworth have very little chemistry together and the entire romance feels shoehorned and forced. Thor’s Asgard cohorts, The Warriors Three and the Lady Sif, are terribly under development and underused. The film itself is strongest in the 1st and 3rd acts with a noticeable lag in middle which, unsurprisingly, Earth centered while the others are mostly set in Asgard. Still as fun mindless summer fun Thor delivers the goods more than it doesn’t.
B-
Thursday, May 5, 2011
TV SHOW REVIEW: SPACED THE COMPLETE SERIES [DVD]
Tim Bisley and Daisy Steiner rent a flat pretending to be a couple. There, they meet Marsha, the alcoholic landlady; Brian, the disturbed and troubled painter downstairs; Mike, Tim's war-crazy best friend; Twist, a fashion designer and Daisy's best friend; and Colin the dog. What follows is the group's crazy and comical adventures.
Starring: Jessica Hynes, Simon Pegg, Julia Deakin, Nick Frost
Director: Edgar Wright
REVIEW:
Being a late a party can typically be a terrible thing but on occasions if you are late you still showed up and had a good time. Having heard of Spaced through reputation over the years had left me longing to see it but after they released it on DVD, I figured I’d wait for a high definition Blu-ray release. Sadly, that release never came and doesn’t seem to be on the horizons so I went ahead and picked up the DVD set. First off, I’m a huge fan of Pegg, Frost & Wright so this was required viewing, it was never a matter of if I’d like it but how much. So after finishing the series in short order recently I’m left kicking myself wondering why it took me so long. Any 30 something nerd slacker needs to watch this series. Besides its general comedic greatness it served as something so much more, a time capsule of me in my mid to late 20. So much of the show rings so true that it’s almost scary. That in of itself is enough for me to love the series as a whole. Add to that seeing the genesis of Wright, Pegg & Frost’s collaboration is just film nerd nirvana. Honestly, it’s almost scary at how good everything works from the start and its always fun to see the evolution continued over the 2 films they did together and what was sorely missing from Pegg & Frost’s Paul. The rest of the cast is all stellar with Jessica Hynes & Julia Deakin leaving the biggest impression on me. The series as a whole is short sweet and outside of a few references, Star Wars Episode 1 and a PS1, it’s kind of timeless as well. The minute the sadness washed off from having finished the last episode I had a need to watch it all again, ala Extras, Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Seinfeld & Arrested Development.
A
[DUH!]
[Trailer] Conan the Barbarian
I’ll be the first to admit I hold no special spot for Schwarzenegger’s Conan even though it is a benchmark for the actor.
Still, it’s a part of my childhood and I can’t overlook the fact that along with a handful of other 80’s movies Conan is one of those characters that linked to the star.
Remake mania is still running pretty strong and while this trailer looks fairly interesting I couldn’t help but notice that it’s felt kind of generic.
If I didn’t know it was Conan or had somebody say the name in the trailer, I’d probably have no idea what movie this was other than another action heavy fantasy film.
Since Marcus Nispel is directing this, he seems to have peaked with the Chainsaw remake, I can’t say I’m too optimistic…..
Still, it’s a part of my childhood and I can’t overlook the fact that along with a handful of other 80’s movies Conan is one of those characters that linked to the star.
Remake mania is still running pretty strong and while this trailer looks fairly interesting I couldn’t help but notice that it’s felt kind of generic.
If I didn’t know it was Conan or had somebody say the name in the trailer, I’d probably have no idea what movie this was other than another action heavy fantasy film.
Since Marcus Nispel is directing this, he seems to have peaked with the Chainsaw remake, I can’t say I’m too optimistic…..
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Final [Trailer] Green Lantern
The final trailer for Green Lantern is out and it does contain some new scenes along with a more cohesive idea of the plot.
Trimmed down significantly is the Ryan Reynolds’s smart ass segments which highlighted the first few clips released.
What we get is a much better idea of the villain, general plot and a few passing glances of Oa and The Guardians.
Looks more like the space adventure I’d hope for in any Lantern flick.
This and Thor were the 2 comic movies I thought had the greatest chance to be sucked into an bottomless Velveeta cheese vortex.
Thor’s reviews have been strong and this one looks like it’s trending in the right direction…..
Trimmed down significantly is the Ryan Reynolds’s smart ass segments which highlighted the first few clips released.
What we get is a much better idea of the villain, general plot and a few passing glances of Oa and The Guardians.
Looks more like the space adventure I’d hope for in any Lantern flick.
This and Thor were the 2 comic movies I thought had the greatest chance to be sucked into an bottomless Velveeta cheese vortex.
Thor’s reviews have been strong and this one looks like it’s trending in the right direction…..
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