Fallen Angels (1995)

"Fallen Angels" was released in 1995 and was written and directed by Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Kar-wai. A mysterious hit man, his detached female partner and a mute, struggle to find happiness and meaning in their desolate and difficult lives in Hong Kong. Inevitably and unknowing, their paths cross.

WOW. This film really blows you away the first time you watch it. And it's even better the second time. This film is wild, unpredictable, action-packed, intimate, deep, crazy and brillant all at the same time. There are three different stories being followed in this film, each with their own dynamics and unique features. 

Each of the story-lines and characters are highly interesting. They're all conflicted. There is no exact plot to the film but it's more the wandering of characters in a dark and brooding setting. Big laughs and some highly emotional moments are generated in this film. One could say, it breaks the genre barrier. 

The opening sequence sets the tone for the entire film. Something to note when watching, the editing style varies depending on which story is being told. Each character is given an editing style. Don't pay too much attention to it but keep it in the back of your head. 

To me, Fallen Angels is about three disconnected individuals trying to find love and acceptance in an unforgiving world. They long for someone to reassure them that everything is going to be ok, even when it's not. Each character is relatable in a different way and yet each character possesses impecable strength. I'm a huge fan of this film and an advocate that more people should see it. So do yourself a favor and go see it. Till next time. 

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112913/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZda7nWftQI&feature=related

50/50 (2011)

"50/50" was released in 2011 and was directed by Jonathan Levine (The Wackness). It's a about a 27 year old who's world is turned upside down upon learning that he has cancer. The film follows his struggle to fight the disease with the help from his vulgar friend, his over-caring mother and an inexperienced therapist. This was inspired by a true story. 

I was pleasantly surprised by this film. Seeing the trailer (which consists of Seth Rogen making cancer jokes), I was somewhat turned off. It looked like a comedy about a guy who has cancer. WHAT? But I went out, got the film and watched it. 

This was much more than just a a comedy. This was a heartfelt, touching and truthful story of a man who is struggling with life. In an ironic way, his diagnosis of cancer inevitably gives him the strength to fully realize what life is worth. The poetic and subtle manner in which this is handled in the film is beautiful. 

However, it is a comedy as well. Seth Rogen supplies the comedic relief to Joseph Gordon-Levitt's unfortunate situation. I must say, I don't think I've seen a better performance, comedic or serious, from Seth Rogen. He shines in every scene he's in and will have you rolling on the floor laughing. 

"50/50" is a character driven film, which always appeals to me. It's funny, moving and highly entertaining. Some moments feel similar to an indie film but that makes it seem even more authentic. Go check it out. I'm sure you will enjoy yourselves. Like I said, I was surprised by this film and it goes to show that you can't judge anything until you experience it. Till next time. 

Here's the IMDB page:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1306980/

Here's the trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dAykqVD5n0U&feature=fvst

2012: The Films to Look For...

No, this is not a post about the "end of the world" film with John Cusack. Relax. What this is, is an upcoming look at some of the films I'm highly excited about for 2012. There are plenty of big name directors releasing films this year that are sure to be hits. Some could even end up as some of the best ever made. No doubt that these films will find themselves on the big stage next year at the oscars. Lets go!

We'll start with an obvious one....

THE DARK KNIGHT RISES (Release date: July 20)

This is the third and final installment in Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy. This film will most definitely be a summer blockbuster. Everything Nolan has made so far has been absolute gold. He's an auteur and a master at his craft. Will definitely be one of the best of the year.


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1345836/
Here's the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXAzGGX2tpw






DJANGO UNCHAINED (Release date: December 25)


This is the upcoming film from one of my favorite directors, Quentin Tarantino. His body of work speaks for itself. This is a western, and knowing Tarantino's favorite film is "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly", I'm sure he's going to deliver another classic.


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1853728/








THE MASTER (No official release date as of now)


Paul Thomas Anderson is back! To me, he's the closest thing to Stanley Kubrick around right now. And that's a serious comparison. He works on his films for a longer period of time than other directors. But it pays off. He goes after quality as opposed to quantity. The Master should just be another excellent addition to his glorious body of work. 


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1560747/











THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY (Release date: December 14)



The prequel to the first three Lord of the Rings films, The Hobbit is looking like it's going to be epic. Peter Jackson returns to direct this mammoth of a story. I highly regret not seeing the first three films in theater, for thats the way they are meant to be seen. I won't make that mistake this time. It's going to be a spectacle. 

Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903624/

Here's the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-y1R1N8FC0&feature=fvst

MOONRISE KINGDOM (Release date: May 16)


I love Wes Anderson films! He is extremely original, which is hard to find these days and every film has a style. His films are alive and breathing. This film looks like it's going to be colorful, funny and have that quirky Wes Anderson tone to it. Can't wait!


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1748122/
Here's the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7N8wkVA4_8s








LINCOLN (Release date: December 2012)


This film is exciting for two reasons. 1. Daniel day-Lewis is playing Abraham Lincoln. 2. Steven Spielberg is directing. Normally, these kind of films are nothing but oscar bait but when Daniel Day-Lewis steps in front of the camera...it's going to be special. Best actor nominee for sure.


Here's the IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443272/






Other Notable Releases


THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN
DARK SHADOWS
THE GREAT GATSBY
THE DICTATOR




As you can tell, it' going to be a special year in film. 2012 promises to wow us with spectacular films that we will cherish for a long time. I, for one, am very excited. Make sure you go see these films once they hit theaters. Till next time.

Ju Dou (1990)

"Ju Dou" is a Chinese film released in 1990 and was directed by Zhang Yimou and Yang Fengliang. It's about a woman, Ju Dou, who is forced into marriage to a brutal dye mill owner. The owner's only reason for marriage is for her to bare his children, which is impossible because he is impotent. But his nephew, Tianqing, falls in love with her and Ju Dou ends up baring his child. I won't spoil anymore, but what follows is a intense experience and ultimately a tragedy. 

This film will catch you by surprise. I was slightly bored at the beginning. Almost looking forward to it being over before it even began. But suddenly, as the plot thickened and the characters became more and more complex, the film grasped me in a way that not many films have. It takes a hold of you and your eye's will not let you look away. It's mesmerizing and beautifully shot. 

This was on some levels, a tough film to swallow. The content itself is taboo among Chinese culture and was actually banned for many years after it's release. But this film is honest. It's a tragic tale of forbidden love that struggles to survive in a society that shows no mercy. 

"Ju Dou" is a excellent film that I would recommend to anyone. It's entertaining for the best reason; the story is brillant. There is also a bundle of symbolism flowing throughout the film. You'll notice certain shots and themes are repeated. Please go see it. I know it's far from the norm of a film many of you would watch but you won't regret this. This film has something to say. Listen. 

Here's the IMDB page:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099902/

Here's the trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75oWde5v9_k

Apocalypto (2006)

"Apocalypto" was released in 2006 and was written and directed by Mel Gibson (The Man Without a Face, Braveheart). To prevent their kingdom from collapsing, The Myans believe human sacrifices to the gods will help change their fate. They destroy villages, separate families to attain these "sacrifices", but one captured man, Jaguar Paw, does everything he can to write his own fate. 

First off, I know what you're all thinking. Mel Gibson?... The guys a wacko. I know he is but that shouldn't deter anyone away from watching his great films. I've always tried to keep my personal feelings out of critiquing someone's work and the same applies here. Going out and finding this movie for your viewing pleasure will not benefit Mel Gibson in any way. Rest assured. 

So onto the film... this film is spectacular. It's a visual feast of gorgeous set designs and marvelous costumes. Non-actors are used here and it gives the film a natural essence that creates a wonderful experience. All the performances are exceptional. Everyone fits. 

They story is what gets me. It's about family, honor, love and change. It's a journey that drives a man far from his home and shows his determination to return to the family that waits for him. Epic is the best way to describe this film. 

"Apocalypto" is a tremendous film that is unfortunately forgotten due to Mel Gibson being a nut. It's a real shame. For the sake of art and experiencing something beautiful, see this film. In fact, I have the link to the whole film below. Also the ending is a complete left turn. You will not see it coming. Till next time. 

                  Here's the ENTIRE FILM on youtube.com:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YA8caj68DYw&feature=related

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0472043/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7oUUAHDNJc&feature=related

Le Tableau (2011)

"Le Tableau" (translation "The Painting") is a French animation film released in 2011 and was directed by Jean-Francois Laguionie. It's a magical tale about the inhabitants of a painting that are divided into two classes of people; the "Alldunns" are the superior ones and the "halfies" are the drawings that were unfinished by the painter. Three of the characters exit the picture in order to find the painter and request he finish the painting to create equality. 

What a wonderful film! This is my first animation film on this blog and I'm proud it's this one. We all love disney and pixar, don't get me wrong I love their films, but there's something special about french animation. Like my teacher said, french animators really embrace the history of animation and it constantly shines through their work. Much is so about this film. 

This is a special film. It really has a message to get out. Animation has this power to transport us somewhere we never thought we could go. It's not the same as a live action-film. When moving drawings can encapsulate our attention and keep us bound to our chairs to find out what is going to happen next; something wondrous is happening. This film does just that. 

"Le Tableau" is one of the best animation films I've ever seen. The ending alone is exceptionally spectacular. The film is about realism, social hierarchies and beauty in it's purest form. Please try and see this film. Enjoy. 

P.S. I actually met the director of this film and he is an extremely humble person who loves animation and creating something people can enjoy. He has a cameo in the film and is great. I can't wait to check out his other work. 

Here's some of the beautiful artwork from "Le Tableau". 

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1891769/
Here's the trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KI85K1Z4qas

Project X (2012)

"Project X" was released in 2012 and was directed by Nima Nourizadeh and produced by Todd Phillips (Old School, The Hangover). It's a voyeur style film that follows three friends as they attempt to host the most epic high school party ever. Inevitably, the party spirals out of control in this crazy and wacky documentary style film. 

First off, I did enjoy this film. Is it the greatest movie ever made? Not even close but overall it was entertaining. It was just as the trailers said, "it's like Superbad and The Hangover had a baby". It had the tone of Superbad and the craziness and unpredictability of The Hangover. You never know what is going to happen next. 

I'll be honest. Story-wise, this movie wasn't very successful. You wont care too deeply about any of the characters and each relationship isn't fully developed. But I can almost guarantee that you will laugh and that you will have a great time watching this. 

Oliver Cooper, the guy who played "Costa", was a standout. Reminded me of a younger and funnier Seth Rogen. Keep your eye's out for this guy in years to come. 

"Project X" was not Citizen Kane or The Godfather. Nor is it trying to be. Many will be harsh on this film but I say, just enjoy it for what it is. Go out and see it. It's a great movie to see with your friends or (like me) your girlfriend. Let me know what you think. Till next time. 

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1636826/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nj_ZNnehHAQ

I'm Here (2010)

"I'm Here" is a short film released in 2010 and was written and directed by Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich, Adaptation). It's a about a world in which robots are the working class. However, even these robots have a human side to them. 

This film is absolutely beautiful. Visually it tells a story about love, friendship and self-sacrifice. I'd recommend this short film to anyone. It's pleasant and heart-warming. 

The special effects on this 30 minute film are simply remarkable. Everything looks so real and after seeing it, you wouldn't believe me when I tell you that those were actors. 

Go check this film out. You will be so happy that you did. Also, I have the link here to the entire film on youtube so theres no excuse to not see it. Enjoy and let me know what you think. 

Here's the IMDB page:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1571404/

Here's the ENTIRE SHORT FILM on youtube.com:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OY1EXZt4ok

X-Men: First Class (2011)

"X-Men: First Class" was released in 2011 and was directed by Matthew Vaughn (Kick-Ass, Stardust, Layer Cake). The film is about the beginnings of the X-Men and their quest to be accepted by the world. Taking place in the early sixties during the Cuban missile crisis, Charles Xavier and Erik Lehnsherr (Later Magneto) believe the mutants are the only ones who can bring peace, and through this be finally accepted. But Eric doesn't share that same belief and uses this plan to exact revenge on the man that killed his mother. There's a lot going on but it's great. 

I've never been a huge fan of prequels because you kind of know what is going to happen. The case here is very different. This storyline is so far removed from the three earlier X-Men films that you are totally caught by surprise. This film is inventive, fun and packs a punch. Not to mention is extremely great filmmaking and at times completely awe-inspiring. 

This is a film for pure entertainment purposes. If you're going in expecting to see some new filmmaking techniques or something groundbreaking you will not find it. Instead, what you will find is a film that excites and tells a story in a brillant fashion. The acting is excellent and the directing shines. Its filled with some of the most iconic scenes a film has had in a long time. And the ending is nothing short of fantastic. 

"X-Men: First Class" was one of the best films of 2011 and to me, ranks up there with "The Dark Knight" as one of the best comic book films ever. This film will not disappoint and I hope you all go check it out. Enjoy. 

Here's the IMDB page:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1270798/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8ccSiH4olo

Top Ten Heroes

The hero is the reason you watch the film. Whether you like or dislike the protagonist of the film, he or she is the purpose for watching. The person you root for to succeed. A great hero has traits that enable him or her to get the job done. Each hero must battle through obstacles, some self-inflicted, to achieve victory. This is the essence of film. Here are my top ten heroes in film thus far. 

TOP TEN HEROES IN FILM
















10. Driver - Drive (2011)

Played by Ryan Gosling

9. Marty McFly - Back to the Future films

Played by Michael J. Fox

8. John McClane - Die Hard films

Played by Bruce Willis

7. Frank Serpico - Serpico (1973)

Played by Al Pacino

6. Luke - Cool Hand Luke (1967)

Played by Paul Newman

5. Rocky - Rocky films

Played by Sylvester Stallone

4. Han Solo - Star Wars Saga

Played by Harrison Ford







3. Juror #8 - 12 Angry Men

Played by Henry Fonda








2. Indiana Jones - Indiana Jones films

Played by Harrison Ford 

1. James Bond - James Bond films

Played By Barry Nelson, Sean Connery, David Niven, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig

Once again let me know if you agree or disagree with this list. Harrison Ford had the best writers working for him through his career. A case could have also been made for his role in "Blade Runner". You should also see these films because they are some of the greatest ever made and that is due to these classic heroes. 

Carlito's Way (1993)

"Carlito's Way" was released in 1993 and was directed by Brian De Palma (Carrie, Scarface, The Untouchables). Puerto-rican ex-convict, Carlito Brigante, is released from prison with the help of his lawyer, David Kleinfeld, and he vows to stay away from all the crime that landed him behind bars. However, one thing leads to another and just as Carlito thinks his planned getaway to paradise seems simple, his past and so called "friend" Kleinfeld intervene.

This film is absolutely tremendous. Yes, it is a gangster film but aspires to be more than that. The film focuses on the deep and complex character of Carlito, played with uncanny brillance by the legendary Al Pacino. Carlito is filled with regret and a desire to start over but plagued with the flaw of loyalty towards those he feels he owes. The dynamic of Pacino's character Carlito is enough reason to see the film. 

This was actually one of the first films I ever owned on DVD. I watched it and immediately fell in love with it. Brian De Palma's directing has never been better. He created a story filled with characters that push the plot as opposed to a plot that pushes the characters.

A real surprise and shining gem in this film is the performance given by Sean Penn. You won't even recognize him. He completely transcends himself and becomes David Kleinfeld. This, in my opinion, was a major oscar nomination snub. 

"Carlito's Way" is an intense and highly enjoyable film. It's quite violent at points but what gangster film isn't. It's one of Al Pacino's best roles and Sean Penn's most forgotten performance. Go check it out and I hope you enjoy. 

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0106519/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbXrkKmCTok

In Bruges (2008)

"In Bruges" was released in 2008 and was written and directed by oscar winner Martin McDonagh ("Six Shooter" - Short film). This dark comedy is about two hit-men hiding out in Bruges, Belgium after a job. While there, they are given the task of another hit and that's when things gets interesting. I don't want to give anything away so go see it.  

First off, what an excellent script! It did receive the academy's attention with a rightfully deserved nomination. Martin McDonagh, in his first feature, created bright complex characters that fly off the screen. The storyline is also as wild as the characters in that you have no idea what is going to happen next. The jokes do not hold back and the film itself is fearless; violent also. 

I have never been a Colin Ferrell fan. I liked him in "Phone Booth" and that was about it. Until I saw this film. He gives a performance that will take your breath away and I promise will change your view of his acting forever. Brendan Gleeson, as always, delivers a riveting performance. One of the most colorful characters comes from Ralph Fiennes who is so evil and so funny all at the same time. His presence is felt the moment he appears on screen. 

I had never heard of Bruges before this film and I can tell you I would love to go there. The film captures the essence and beauty of the city in a glamours fashion. It looks medieval and spilling with history at each corner. In the film, they constantly refer to Bruges as a fairytale city. I have a feeling it just may be. I can almost guarantee that you'll want to take a trip to Bruges after seeing this. 

"In Bruges" is a somewhat unknown film and this bothers me. In my opinion, it's one of the top films of the decade. Please see it. I promise it will not disappoint. It starts off a little slow for some views but just sit back and be prepared for the twisting and turning as the plot thickens out of control. Enjoy. 

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0780536/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jh2Xct8AMo