WHEN THE GAME STANDS TALL BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2014 One part spiritual drama, one part “Varsity Blues,” neither quite lands their footing in “When The Game Stands Tall.” Based on the true story of the De La Salle Spartans high school football team who had a record-setting 151-game 1992–2003 winning streak, the film picks up around their eventual defeat and the emotional and … Read More Movie Review: When The Game Stands Tall (2014)
THE EXPENDABLES 3 BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 14, 2014 Sylvester Stallone continues to help write and star in his bombastic action series, this time delivering the first PG-13 endeavor, “The Expendables 3”. Overloading the cast with even more action stars and even poking fun at that fact in the trailer, Stallone has officially outdone himself. With almost all of the former cast returning, including Jason … Read More Quick Review: The Expendables 3 (2014)
SIN CITY: A DAME TO KILL FOR BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 3, 2014 A decade ago, films like “Sin City” and “300” were revolutionary, delivering cinematic sequences straight from the pages of graphic novels with a style over substance monicker that made them thrilling to watch. Fast-forward ten years and those stylistic choices have been heavily explored, especially by “300” director Zack Snyder, whose films … Read More Quick Review: Sin City: A Dame To Kill For (2014)
22 JUMP STREET BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 3, 2014 Remember that kid who got picked on in middle school? (I do, because I was one.) Now, remember how eventually they just owned the names that they were being called until it was no longer enjoyable for the other kids to make fun of them? Well, Christopher Miller and Phil Lord took a page out of … Read More Quick Review: 22 Jump Street (2014)
IF I STAY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 2, 2014 As similar as they are, “If I Stay” and “The Fault In Our Stars” are worlds apart. Of course, they are both based on widely popular young adult novels, star two up-and-coming young actresses, and contain some life and death subject matter, but upon a closer look, one of these films rises above the other. “If … Read More Quick Review: If I Stay (2014)
THE WIND RISES BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 30, 2014 Marked to be Hayao Miyazaki’s final film, “The Wind Rises” delivers an animated feast of colors beyond any of his previous films including “Spirited Away” (2002) and “Howls Moving Castle” (2005). Delving more into the human condition rather than any imaginary worlds, as most of his previous films do, this also ends up being Miyazaki’s most … Read More Quick Review: The Wind Rises (2013)
THE ONE I LOVE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 4, 2014 No one is pulling off independent science fiction better than Mark Duplass. In 2012, Duplass starred in “Safety Not Guaranteed,” a psychological sci-fi that played more on relationships rather than the time travel element that made it unique. This year, he stars in “The One I Love,” with Elisabeth Moss (“Mad Men”) as a couple … Read More Quick Review: The One I Love (2014)
A MOST WANTED MAN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 4, 2014 Marking the final leading role for Philip Seymour Hoffman, “A Most Wanted Man” is an espionage thriller from the same author as “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.” Intricate and complex in design, Hoffman delivers a powerhouse of a performance as Günther Bachmann, adding fervor to an otherwise extremely dense subject matter. Much in the same way … Read More Quick Review: A Most Wanted Man (2014)
A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 7, 2014 Seth MacFarlane set the bar high with his successful comedy “Ted”, reminding why “Family Guy” has been pushing the envelope for as long as it has. However, given the reins to produce his passion project, “A Million Ways To Die In The West”, a comedic period Western, MacFarlane falters, proving the … Read More Quick Review: A Million Ways To Die In The West (2014)
CHEF BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLSEPTEMBER 29, 2014 Jon Favreau takes to independent filmmaking with his food truck film titled “Chef”, in which he writes, directs, and stars in. The quintessential definition of “food porn,” the story Favreau weaves takes professional chef Carl (director Jon Favreau himself) from the kitchen of a high-end restaurant owned by Riva (Dustin Hoffman) to a food truck that ventures from … Read More Quick Review: Chef (2014)
THE ROVER BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLSEPTEMBER 23, 2014 Post-apocalypse has become so many things in cinema. Whether it is zombies or the fallout of some catastrophe, Hollywood seems obsessed with the idea. Flooding the theaters with these films, it becomes rare for any of these them to stand out. What becomes key is subtlety. Parring down, focusing on the characters rather than the changing world … Read More Quick Review: The Rover (2014)
NEIGHBORS BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLSEPTEMBER 23, 2014 Unlike Adam Sandler, who, as he has gotten older, has gone from raunchy comedies to watered-down family comedies, Seth Rogen continues to take steps deeper and deeper into the world of dirty comedies. As Mac, who is a loving husband to Kelly (Rose Byrne) and caring father to their baby, Rogen pulls off this nice balance between a … Read More Quick Review: Neighbors (2014)
PALO ALTO BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLSEPTEMBER 8, 2014 Believe it or not, but actor and director James Franco is also a published author. His 2010 published collection of short stories titled “Palo Alto” is based somewhat on his life of growing up in that area of Southern California. Centered around different high schoolers and their bouts with drinking, drugs, and violence, the collection spawned a … Read More Quick Review: Palo Alto (2014)
BELLE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAUGUST 26, 2014 Having starred in countless television movies and adding small supporting roles to recent films like “Larry Crowne” and “Odd Thomas”, actress Gugu Mbatha-Raw makes her first breakout leading performance in Amma Asante’s first film in almost a decade, the period piece titled “Belle”. Based on a 1779 painting of the real-life Dido Elizabeth Belle next to her cousin, … Read More Quick Review: Belle (2014)
BLENDED BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAUGUST 26, 2014 Looking at the progression from “The Wedding Singer” to “50 First Dates” to the newest installment in the pairing of Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, “Blended”, it is made painfully clear how far off base the quality of the films have fallen. Where “The Wedding Singer” had likable characters and somewhat edgy jokes, “Blended” has flat, one-dimensional characters … Read More Quick Review: Blended (2014)
THE QUIET ONES BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAUGUST 19, 2014 If I were to say that “The Quiet Ones” was creepy, since it is a horror film and you would hope for the best, you may assume it is a startling and hair-raising sort of creepy. The truth is, however, that the legendary Hammer Films Productions release is a different type of creepy. As with most … Read More Movie Review: The Quiet Ones (2014)
LOCKE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAUGUST 11, 2014 Following in the footsteps of a film like “Buried,” which was shot entirely in one location with only one actor ever-present on-screen, “Locke” takes its single character show on the road. Starring Tom Hardy and an extensive voice cast, this simple idea sees character Ivan Locke (Hardy) taking a two-hour-long night drive from work to London all while … Read More Quick Review: Locke (2014)
MUPPETS MOST WANTED BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAUGUST 11, 2014 Losing most of the magic instilled by the 2011 reboot of “The Muppets” and even with three years between productions, “Muppets Most Wanted” still feels like a lesser quality product with less humor and less soul. Do not get me wrong, I am entirely happy just to see the Muppets back in action on the big … Read More Quick Review: Muppets Most Wanted (2014)
A HAUNTED HOUSE 2 BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAUGUST 11, 2014 After having five “Scary Movie” horror parodies thrown at us, the biggest fear now is that “A Haunted House” will become a franchise. The first film was an answer to the “Paranormal Activity” craze, basically just changing the name of the parodies and letting Marlon Wayans step out on his own to make fun of … Read More Quick Review: A Haunted House 2 (2014)
BREATHE IN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAUGUST 11, 2014 With 2011’s “Like Crazy”, two things happened: Drake Doremus became one of my favorite directors and I developed a huge crush on actress Felicity Jones. A few years later, we are once again graced with their presence together in the independent drama entitled “Breathe In”, an emotionally complex study of a family that faces its breaking point … Read More Quick Review: Breathe In (2014)
THE OTHER WOMAN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJULY 28, 2014 If I wanted to see Kate Upton running in a skimpy bikini, I would just Google it. When it comes to most romantic comedies, I can get on board. Despite almost all of these films having the same plot and story structure, there can be a sincerity brought out by stellar actors and actresses. “The Other … Read More Quick Review: The Other Woman (2014)
UNDER THE SKIN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJULY 19, 2014 Over the years, it has become apparent that Scarlett Johansson will not be giving up her independent acting roots anytime soon. She has become a household name with her role as Black Widow in “The Avengers” but she continues to produce small titles which are actually where she got her start, with films like “Lost In … Read More Quick Review: Under The Skin (2014)
EARTH TO ECHO BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJULY 2, 2014 “I’m going to tell you a story and I’m not supposed to tell anyone so keep it between us. We were normal kids until we discovered something.” — Tuck (Brian “Astro” Bradley) Here is my theory: director David Green saw “Super 8” and heard critics call it a mix between “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and “Cloverfield,” pairing … Read More Quick Review: Earth To Echo (2014)
ENEMY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJUNE 27, 2014 The doppelganger storyline has never been more intense or more confusing than in director Denis Villeneuve’s latest film, “Enemy”. In “Prisoners”, Villeneuve directed Jake Gyllenhaal to one of the best performances of his career, so it was only natural for these two to pair up again. This time around Gyllenhaal plays a lowly history teacher named Adam who … Read More Quick Review: Enemy (2014)
300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJUNE 27, 2014 Eva Green is a sexpot. Taking on the role of the villain Artemisia in the somewhat sequel to “300” (more of a side-quel as the timelines run parallel), “300: Rise Of An Empire” proves that Eva has the sinister vivacity that makes her a highlight under the right circumstances. Without her, the film would … Read More Quick Review: 300: Rise Of An Empire (2014)
JOE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJUNE 19, 2014 David Gordon Green returns to form with his latest drama, “Joe”, about an ex-con who finds himself in the tough position between a young, innocent boy and his twisted, abusive father. Proving that his best days may still be ahead of him, Academy Award-winning Nicolas Cage produces one of his best performances ever, as the title character. Joe … Read More Quick Review: Joe (2014)
WALK OF SHAME BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJUNE 18, 2014 Urban dictionary defines a “walk of shame” as “the walk home after a one night stand”. Further extrapolated, “one usually wears either the clothes they went out in (i.e. short skirt and heels) or the clothing of the person they slept with (i.e. a large white t-shirt) the morning after”. In the film bearing that title, … Read More Movie Review: Walk Of Shame (2014)
THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJUNE 18, 2014 One will often hear that when their favorite artists come to town, everyone wants them to play the hits. Director Wes Anderson is content with playing the hits, delivering yet another truly unique comedy in “The Grand Budapest Hotel”. Like in the world of art and painting, one can tell a Wes Anderson from the … Read More Quick Review: The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
NON-STOP BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJUNE 11, 2014 Flying is nerve-racking enough without someone terrorizing your airplane. However, in the latest entry in the thriller sub-genre taking place on planes (“Flightplan,” “Snakes On A Plane,” etc.), director Jaume Collet-Serra (“Unknown,” “Orphan”) sets up a U.S. federal air marshall (Liam Neeson) as the potential antagonist on this flight. Neeson plays Bill Marks, a troubled, gun and badge … Read More Quick Review: Non-Stop (2014)
POMPEII BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMAY 17, 2014 Mount Vesuvius is the star of “Pompeii” and it never lets you forget it. Always looming in the background, the history of the volcano is quite exceptional, and allows us to recognize that it is a ticking time bomb in the film, ready to take out the entire city of Pompeii when it finally erupts and encasing the … Read More Movie Review: Pompeii (2014)
GRAND PIANO BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMAY 17, 2014 Elijah Wood is not a piano-playing prodigy. But from the looks of director Eugenio Mira’s new feature film “Grand Piano”, he looks exactly like he has been playing piano his entire life. The premise of “Phone Booth,” which saw Colin Farrell stuck in a phone booth taking orders from a sniper that we never see, but whose … Read More Movie Review: Grand Piano (2014)
IN SECRET BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMAY 17, 2014 Sexual repression in the 1860s is not a subject matter often discussed, but in Charlie Stratton’s adaptation of Émile Zola’s scandalous novel “Thérèse Raquin” (1867) titled “In Secret”, this tale is given a shot of rejuvenation thanks to its young and aspiring cast. Elizabeth Olsen is enough reason to view any film these days, with impressive control … Read More Quick Review: In Secret (2014)
THE MONUMENTS MEN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMAY 17, 2014 On the surface, “The Monuments Men” looks like an Oscar-worthy World War II drama. Directed by George Clooney, he has already proven to be a successful director on previous films like “Confessions Of A Dangerous Mind,” “The Ides Of March,” and the Academy Award-nominated “Good Night, and Good Luck.” Along with an impressive ensemble cast, including … Read More Quick Review: The Monuments Men (2014)
BRINGING UP BOBBY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMAY 4, 2014 Many questions arise from watching “Bringing Up Bobby.” First, of which, is why did actress Famke Janssen decide to write, direct, and produce this film as her first directorial venture? A somewhat successful actress in her own right, you would assume either this was a passion project of hers or something she felt very strongly about. … Read More Quick Review: Bringing Up Bobby (2012)
VERONICA MARS BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMAY 3, 2014 Ten years after the first season of this cult classic appeared on television, “Veronica Mars” makes its crowd-funded feature film debut. Bringing back almost all of the notable cast members and weaving them into another whodunnit murder mystery, Kristen Bell once again leads the pack as the tiny blonde detective for hire, the role that put her … Read More Quick Review: Veronica Mars (2014)
DEVIL’S DUE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMAY 3, 2014 With the creativity and ingenuity found in their “V/H/S” anthology short film, “10/31/98,” about a group of guys who find themselves in a haunted house by mistake on Halloween, one would imagine that directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett could bring the same level of genius to their first feature film. Unfortunately, “Devil’s Due” proves to be … Read More Quick Review: Devil’s Due (2014)
CUTIE AND THE BOXER BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAPRIL 19, 2014 “Cutie And The Boxer” is the story of the artistic couple, Noriko and Ushio Shinohara, living in their Manhattan flat attempting to make ends meet through their art. Having moved from Japan to the United States, Ushio found slight stardom from his transition into the New York art scene. His sculptures made from recycled cardboard … Read More Quick Review: Cutie And The Boxer (2013)
A.C.O.D. BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAPRIL 18, 2014 Adam Scott leads a stellar comedic ensemble cast in a not-so-funny jaunt through exactly what the title suggests, “A.C.O.D.” or “Adult Children Of Divorce.” When you see a cast list filled with Richard Jenkins, Catherine O’Hara, Amy Poehler (playing against type), Clark Duke, Jessica Alba, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and Jane Lynch, chances are high that most people will … Read More Quick Review: A.C.O.D. (2013)
PHILOMENA BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAPRIL 18, 2014 Human emotion is a complicated yet beautiful thing. Captured like lightning bugs in a bottle, the Academy Award-nominated “Philomena” displays these complicated emotions in full force. Based on the true story of Philomena Lee, whose baby boy was taken from her by the nuns in the convent that took her in and adopted him away without her permission, … Read More Quick Review: Philomena (2013)
PRIMER BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAPRIL 5, 2014 “Primer” is a dense, low budget, science fiction film that sets out to explore the bare bones of time travel and the relationship between friends in discovering the ability to travel through time. Solidly produced on a $7,000 budget, Shane Carruth writes, directs, produces, edits, stars in, and scores this little American Indie that could. After stumbling across … Read More Quick Review: Primer (2003)
47 RONIN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLAPRIL 5, 2014 Too often does Hollywood take the path of overindulgence, expanding so much on one simple idea to the point where you hardly recognize the original story? “47 Ronin” is this epitome of a simple story masqueraded with so much flare and convoluted with so much mythology that the studio fails to see the golden story that they … Read More Quick Review: 47 Ronin (2013)
THE GREAT BEAUTY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMARCH 29, 2014 Having won the Golden Globe and Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Feature, “The Great Beauty” or “La Grande Bellezza” was one of the only foreign film anyone was talking about this Oscar season. Setting the bar high for foreign film contenders, with amazing visuals and memorable performances, this French film is filled with breathtaking sequences … Read More Quick Review: The Great Beauty (2013)
MANDELA: LONG WALK TO FREEDOM BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMARCH 22, 2014 Timing is everything. And in the case of “Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom” and its release date occurring very close to the actual passing of Nelson Mandela is simply a coincidence and an example of perfect timing as far as biopics go. I will always remember driving down Sunset Blvd and seeing huge advertisements … Read More Quick Review: Mandela: Long Walk To Freedom (2013)
NEED FOR SPEED BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMARCH 15, 2014 2014’s answer to the first “The Fast and the Furious” film, following the same underground street racing lifestyle, along with high-level emotions coinciding with very little substantial dialogue, “Need For Speed” runs a little hot, at over two hours long. Suffering from dead-end plot points, elements that exist to only serve the plot, and the overuse … Read More Quick Review: Need For Speed (2014)
THE BROKEN CIRCLE BREAKDOWN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLMARCH 15, 2014 Coming out of Belgium and nominated at the 86th Annual Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Feature, “The Broken Circle Breakdown” is a passionate love story filled with young love and young loss that tears at the heartstrings and leaves you on the verge of emotionally drained by the time you walk out of the … Read More Quick Review: The Broken Circle Breakdown (2013)
THE SQUARE (2013) BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 23, 2014 If there is one thing I learned about myself while watching “The Square,” it is that I am completely out of touch with the worldwide news. Taking a candid look at the Egyptian population fighting their government for freedom, this political struggle has been transpiring since 2011 and I had no idea it was happening. Originally … Read More Quick Review: The Square (2013)
THE MISSING PICTURE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 21, 2014 Cambodia’s foreign film entry “The Missing Picture” is a multi-media exploration of the Kampuchean Revolution in 1975, of which very few images remain. To counteract these “missing pictures”, the filmmaker creates clay models of himself and many of the surrounding Cambodians to reenact the damage done by Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. The real marvel … Read More Quick Review: The Missing Picture (2013)
ERNEST & CELESTINE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 16, 2014 For lack of a better term, “Ernest And Celestine” is cute. It is cutely drawn, reviving the hand-drawn animation style, the characters are cute, and the voices (in French) are cute. Having made it to a preview screening of this foreign animated film in the theaters, I can easily say that the audience loved it. Adults … Read More Quick Review: Ernest & Celestine (2013)
THE ACT OF KILLING BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 15, 2014 A once-in-a-lifetime documentary about paramilitary leaders (also known as death squad leaders) in Indonesia, “The Act Of Killing” interviews these men about their practices and even has them reenact some of the vicious things they have done, all while unconsciously unraveling them to the point where the film ends with the main death squad leader, … Read More Quick Review: The Act Of Killing (2013)
THE HUNT BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 15, 2014 Evoking one of the most emotionally conflicted responses I have ever had during a film, Thomas Vinterberg’s latest foreign-language film, “The Hunt” will have you yelling at the screen in no time. Some films benefit from keeping its secrets until the very end, playing close to the chest, and shocking audiences with reveals. “The Hunt” is an … Read More Quick Review: The Hunt (2013)
SPIRITED AWAY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 10, 2014 Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar-winning animated film “Spirited Away” tells the story of a little girl who follows her parents into a strange amusement park and gets lost in the world of the spirits. Following the helpful young man, Haku, the young girl takes refuge in a bathhouse, run by a witch named Yubaba. In trying to free her … Read More Quick Review: Spirited Away (2003)
PLUSH BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 10, 2014 Without the talented Emily Browning, “Plush” would almost be unwatchable. But with her innocent style mixed with the precarious nature of her character, she becomes the focal point of this feature as Hayley, the rockstar that loses her brother/bandmate to drugs. Following a poorly received second album, Hayley begins an intimate connection with her new guitarist Enzo (Xavier … Read More Quick Review: Plush (2013)
20 FEET FROM STARDOM BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 5, 2014 Following the story of some of the most prestigious backup singers in music, “20 Feet From Stardom” pleasantly surprises, providing a relatable and insightful look at the music industry. Including interviews with Darlene Love, Judith Hill, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer, Táta Vega, and Jo Lawry, and spanning decades with these women lending their vocals in … Read More Quick Review: 20 Feet From Stardom (2013)
OMAR BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 2, 2014 Five years ago, I started participating in what I call the Oscar Challenge, where I watch every single film nominated for an Academy Award that year, and it was for films like “Omar” that I started doing it in the first place. A Palestinian love story between a young man and his best friend’s sister, “Omar” was one … Read More Quick Review: Omar (2013)
DESPICABLE ME 2 BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLFEBRUARY 1, 2014 Toss all the minions at me that you want, “Despicable Me 2” does nothing for me. Expanding off the original film, former super-villain Gru (Steve Carrell) turned foster father is taken captive by the Anti-Villain League, headed by Silas Ramsbottom (Steve Coogan), to consult for their latest case, a missing laboratory stolen by a giant magnet. … Read More Quick Review: Despicable Me 2 (2013)
DIRTY WARS BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 27, 2014 Investigative journalist Jeremy Scahill, known for his book “Blackwater,” tells the story of his trip to Afghanistan, as he delves into the mystery of unsanctioned U.S. Army night raids. Despite his over-dramatic voice-over narration, the interviews he has with many of the people involved with the war are very informative. The Army veteran that he interviews state … Read More Quick Review: Dirty Wars (2013)
PARANORMAL ACTIVITY: THE MARKED ONES BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 To sum up “Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones” into one word; derivative. Copying just about every horror and possession device in the book, this detour in the franchise adds nothing to the narrative yet tries to attach itself desperately to the previous installments. Once again we meet new characters who are simply living their … Read More Quick Review: Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones (2014)
MAGIC MAGIC BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 If you’ve seen the trailer for “Magic Magic,” then you’ve successfully been duped. Not to say “Magic Magic” isn’t an exceptional thriller with fine performances, but anyone expecting a sinister, psychological thriller where everyone is out to get the leading lady will be sadly mistaken. Juno Temple plays lead Alicia, vacationing from the States to Chile to … Read More Quick Review: Magic Magic (2013)
AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 Not surprisingly adapted from a stage play by Tracy Letts, who also pens the screenplay, “August: Osage County” is a character piece if ever there was one. Set in the Oklahoma home of Violet Weston for most of the run-time, the characters are simply allowed to blossom and mold in front of our eyes. Pulling apart … Read More Quick Review: August: Osage County (2013)
THE WALL (DIE WAND) BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 An interesting premise, “The Wall” sees a woman trapped in the wilderness behind an invisible barrier, left to fend for herself and face solitude, with only animals to accompany her and give her purpose. If you haven’t read Marlen Haushofer’s 1963 novel in which the film is based, you’ll likely get an inkling of the … Read More Quick Review: The Wall (Die Wand) (2013)
ALICE IN WONDERLAND BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 Trippy is the best descriptor for the animated Disney classic “Alice In Wonderland”. To children, it’s just an innocent and curious blonde falling into a rabbit hole and discovering a whole new world. But watched as an adult, Alice steps into a very psychedelic otherworld that would likely best be enjoyed while on some sort of … Read More Quick Review: Alice In Wonderland (1951)
SWEETWATER BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 A Western at heart, “Sweetwater” loses its footing on more than one occasion, arguing whether to be a serious, full-on wild west revival or an eccentric stomping ground for its colorful cast of characters. Most of the characters in the film are cartoonish, especially the villain, Prophet Josiah (Jason Isaacs) who preaches to his congregation one second, kills … Read More Quick Review: Sweetwater (2013)
FROZEN RIVER BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 Having been acting since 1984, “Frozen River” marked Melissa Leo’s revival, bringing her an Oscar nomination and a continued impressive career to follow. Bringing to life the white trash lifestyle in New York, Ray’s (Melissa Leo) dreams of getting a new double-wide trailer with a jacuzzi tub are dashed when her gambling husband runs off with all … Read More Quick Review: Frozen River (2008)
MY WEEK WITH MARILYN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 Michelle Williams wholeheartedly pulls off the role of Marilyn Monroe in “My Week With Marilyn” capturing not only the bubbly on-screen beauty that we knew and loved but the innocent and mysterious side of her character as well. Williams has never been more attractive and wholly engulfed in a role than she was with Marilyn, … Read More Quick Review: My Week With Marilyn (2011)
REDEMPTION(aka HUMMINGBIRD) BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 “Redemption” is not completely what you’d expect from Jason Statham. A man that has his very own brand of action films, Statham steps into a much more dramatic role as Smith, an AWOL Special Forces soldier that has taken to the streets of London, living homeless to avoid being detected. After a young homeless girl is taken … Read More Quick Review: Redemption (2013)
REQUIEM FOR A DREAM BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 Proving almost immediately in his career that he had a distinct eye for the surreal, Darren Aronofsky set the stage for his legacy with one of his first films, the unforgettable “Requiem For A Dream.” Starring the ultra-talented Jared Leto as the lead, Harry, his performance offers up one of the many best of his … Read More Quick Review: Requiem For A Dream (2000)
FAR FROM HEAVEN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 More like an episode of “Mad Men,” Todd Haynes’ period drama “Far From Heaven,” set in the late ’50s, tackles some racy issues including homosexuality, interracial relationships, and divorce, all on the backdrop of a picture-perfect ’50s family. Julianne Moore plays the matriarch of the family, Cathy Whitaker, a stay-at-home mom with more on her plate … Read More Quick Review: Far From Heaven (2002)
WHAT DREAMS MAY COME BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 “What Dreams May Come” presents an intriguing take on what happens to someone when they die, presenting a visual representation of the afterlife. Starring Robin Williams in the leading role, for the most part, he fits the role just fine, except for when playing his younger self, to which he comes off hokey and out … Read More Quick Review: What Dreams May Come (1998)
BRAVEHEART BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 Mel Gibson not only proves he’s an amazing actor in “Braveheart,” but he also proves to be a high caliber director, versatile enough to star as the lead in an epic film while directing what will remain a cinematic classic. Extremely dark, the story continuously surprises, catching the viewer off guard on multiple occasions. Hooking me within the … Read More Quick Review: Braveheart (1995)
JACK FROST BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 14, 2014 For some reason, whether it was because it was always on cable around Christmas or because it had Michael Keaton in it, I’ve seen “Jack Frost” more times than I can remember, and to be perfectly honest, I enjoy it every time. Keaton plays a musician father that is just about to break into the music industry … Read More Quick Review: Jack Frost (1998)
THE POLAR EXPRESS BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 13, 2014 Perfect for children, Robert Zemeckis sets the stage for the motion capture animated films to follow with “The Polar Express,” where Tom Hanks shines through as many of the characters in the film. Taking a young boy whose belief in Santa Claus begins to falter on an epic train adventure to the North Pole, this heartwarming … Read More Quick Review: The Polar Express (2004)
THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 3, 2014 “The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty” is a balance of memorable moments and sincere performances from most of the main cast, especially Ben Stiller and Sean Penn. Stepping into the director’s shoes, Stiller takes on double duty and does not disappoint, playing title character Walter Mitty, an easygoing daydreamer living a reserved lifestyle. … Read More Quick Review: The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty (2013)
THE WOLF OF WALL STREET BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLJANUARY 3, 2014 Leonardo DiCaprio gives one of his best performances of his career in Martin Scorsese’s “The Wolf Of Wall Street”, a brutally honest look at the life of real-life New York stockbroker, Jordan Belfort, who scammed rich people out of their money to live his lavish, no holds barred lifestyle. Almost pornographic, the film brings … Read More Quick Review: The Wolf Of Wall Street (2013)
JINGLE ALL THE WAY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 Despite now being a classic Christmas film and despite being set in my home state of Minnesota, “Jingle All The Way” is not a great Christmas film. Capturing the angst of a parent needing to get the most popular toy for his child on Christmas Eve, the morals are down and dirty, not providing for … Read More Quick Review: Jingle All The Way (1996)
NATIONAL LAMPOON’SCHRISTMAS VACATION BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 Still hilarious to this day, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” never gets old. Thanks to impeccable comedic delivery by funnyman Chevy Chase, the imagery of the Griswold family Christmas sets the stage for millions across the country to enjoy their families and sit down by their Christmas trees for the holiday season, watching one man’s strife to … Read More Quick Review: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
HOME ALONE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 One cannot deny the classic status of “Home Alone” as one of the most-watched Christmas movies of all-time. Written by John Hughes and directed by Chris Columbus, the story of a boy accidentally left at home by his family headed on vacation left to defend his house against pending thieves is now recognizable to anyone with a … Read More Quick Review: Home Alone (1990)
THE LION KING BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 An absolute classic, Disney’s “The Lion King” is one of the very first films I remember latching on to as a child, watching the VHS in constant succession, learning every line and every song, and the film still does not get old to this day, with a brilliant remastered version that makes the film look like … Read More Quick Review: The Lion King (1994)
[REC] BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 Found footage zombie horror at its best, “[REC]” takes an interesting approach at the idea by sending in one cameraman and a reporter as they follow a group of firemen called to a scene, only to be quarantined in the apartment building with unexplainable attacks by humans. Much eerier than the American remake titled “Quarantine”, Manuela Velasco, an … Read More Quick Review: [Rec] (2007)
VIOLET & DAISY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 The idea of “Violet & Daisy” was likely much more interesting than the execution. The idea of two young girls, interested in lollipops and pop singers, doubling as assassins is quite the tale. But as most of the film takes place in one living room and the actresses aren’t allowed to shine, the entire film falls … Read More Quick Review: Violet & Daisy (2013)
IN THE VALLEY OF ELAH BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 Heartbreakingly real, the film “In The Valley Of Elah” tells the story of a veteran father looking for his AWOL son after his return from Iraq. Paul Haggis, best known for his directing in “Crash” delivers yet another emotionally charged drama, where every clue and every interview with a suspect leads the characters further … Read More Quick Review: In The Valley Of Elah (2007)
HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 Full of interesting characters and Hayao Miyazaki’s beautiful animation styling, “Howl’s Moving Castle” is an awesome feat of Japanese film making, setting the cornerstone for anime that plays across to a much larger audience than most iterations. The film follows Sophie, a hat maker and oldest daughter of a flighty debutante mother, as she toils with … Read More Quick Review: Howl’s Moving Castle (2005)
GHOST TEAM ONE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 Not funny enough to be a complete satire and not serious enough to be a healthy evolution to the haunted house genre of film, “Ghost Team One” takes the found footage, “Paranormal Activity” approach to what can only be described as a failed raunchy comedy, with very little raunch and almost no comedy. With so much … Read More Quick Review: Ghost Team One (2013)
ANCHORMAN 2: THE LEGEND CONTINUES BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 Not quite capturing the magic that was the original “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy,” the sequel, “The Legend Continues” takes the next logical step in the progression of news reporting and steps into the world of the 24-hour news. Will Ferrell does little to improve his stint as Ron Burgundy but continues in … Read More Quick Review: Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues (2013)
AMERICAN HUSTLE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 A collection of David O. Russell’s top players, Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, and Amy Adams collaborate in one of the best ensemble cast films of the year, “American Hustle”. Taking a spin on the ‘70s FBI operation known as ABSCAM (Abdul Scam) in which an apprehended con artist was used to set up members of … Read More Quick Review: American Hustle (2013)
THE HOBBIT: THE DESOLATION OF SMAUG BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 Where Peter Jackson had a distinct vision and fleshed out story with an appropriate ending point in “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey,” he somewhat loses that vision with the sequel, “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.” We all wondered how Jackson would make this short children’s story by J.R.R. Tolkien into three films … Read More Quick Review: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
ZODIAC BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 26, 2013 As dark and dreary as a David Fincher film can get, “Zodiac” delves into the true to life unsolved crimes of a serial killer known as the Zodiac Killer. Unfolding like an actual mystery, Fincher lays out the entire groundwork of this real-life story and involves the audience in a manhunt that took place from the late ‘60s … Read More Quick Review: Zodiac (2007)
ADORE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 Bringing new meaning to the Oedipus complex, “Adore” revolves around two best friends who grow up together from a very young age, spending most of their time swimming out to a raft in the stunningly gorgeous Australian seaside. All grown up, Lil and Roz, played by Naomi Watts and Robin Wright, continue their relationship, practically coming off like … Read More Quick Review: Adore (2013)
BABEL BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 Intertwining stories and lives across multiple countries and cultures, “Babel” covers its bases on almost every type of person and ethnicity that you could think of while weaving together a complex tale to which they all connect. Whether its two harmless young boys in Morocco who are given a rifle to watch over sheep, only to accidentally shoot … Read More Quick Review: Babel (2006)
BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 “Brokeback Mountain” lives up to its expectations by being a highly homoerotic love story between two cowboys working as ranch hands for winter and the spiral that follows. Lead tremendously by Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal, the film is unforgettable because of the performances turned in between the two. Ledger plays the grisly Ennis Del Mar who … Read More Quick Review: Brokeback Mountain (2005)
THE CURIOUS CASE OF BENJAMIN BUTTON BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 David Fincher delivers his most sincere venture yet, with the almost three-hour epic drama “The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button.” Centered on an infant born with the qualities of an old man, complete with cataracts and arthritis, abandoned by his father, and taken in by a black woman named Queenie (Taraji P. Henson), … Read More Quick Review: The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button (2008)
THE COLLECTION BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 Before “The Collection,” there was “The Collector,” a mostly tight-knit and grounded horror film with a more than interesting plot; a man (Josh Stewart) stealing from a family is caught in the middle of a killer’s game of collecting his prey. Josh Stewart was fun to watch, there were heightened moments of violence and sex, and the … Read More Quick Review: The Collection (2012)
HOMEFRONT BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 Jason Statham’s patented brand of violent thrillers have become a sort of art form, with strategic fight sequences built around a loose narrative that allows Statham’s characters to always be the good guy, looking like the underdog, but using his endless skills to take down villains much in the same vein as a less debonaire James Bond. In … Read More Quick Review: Homefront (2013)
INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 Every year, I feel like we get at least one truly phenomenal music-based film, and the Coen Brothers’ “Inside Llewyn Davis” is that one. The music throughout the film is performed by the actors themselves and comes from Oscar winner T Bone Burnett collaborating with Marcus Mumford of Mumford & Sons. Catching you with folk ballads … Read More Quick Review: Inside Llewyn Davis (2013)
THE READER BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 Nothing short of brilliant, Stephen Daldry’s “The Reader” is a twisting turning drama with stunning performances and constant surprises, delving into an interesting structure in which to tell a story. Ralph Fiennes plays brooding lead man Michael Berg, whose thoughtful performance bookends the film, as the rest of the story is told through flashbacks of his life, … Read More Quick Review: The Reader (2008)
OUT OF THE FURNACE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 Tent-poled by an amazing cast, “Out Of The Furnace” is nothing if not an exercise in excellent casting choices. Say what you will, but Christian Bale is a huge draw. Even with his Batman days behind him, his Oscar-winning performance in “The Fighter” is enough proof to say he can get people in a theater … Read More Quick Review: Out Of The Furnace (2013)
THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 At first glance, “The Haunting In Connecticut” comes off much like your typical haunted horror film, complete with the based on a true story, the purchase of a creaky old house possessed by spirits who roam around at night, and a sick young man left to experience these otherworldly beings on his own. But director … Read More Quick Review: The Haunting In Connecticut (2009)
PARADISE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLDECEMBER 23, 2013 Diablo Cody has more than proven her worth as a screenwriter, with “Juno” and “Young Adult” under her belt, but taking on the role of writer and director may have been too far of a stretch. In her latest satire, “Paradise,” Cody’s paper-thin veneer is almost hard to stomach at times, feeling less like a script written by … Read More Quick Review: Paradise (2013)
CRAZY HEART BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 30, 2013 “Crazy Heart” is a one of a kind drama, presenting Jeff Bridges in his best role to date as fading country star Bad Blake. Blake is an alcoholic who has been married four times and is on the road again at the 57-years-old. Once a huge star in the country scene, he’s now playing tiny bars and … Read More Quick Review: Crazy Heart (2009)
THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 30, 2013 Visually enthralling, grandiosely captivating, “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” proves that fans are safe with Peter Jackson at the helm of the Middle-earth. Martin Freeman is by far the most enjoyable portion of the film, with the look and charisma to deftly carry this latest Tolkien franchise, as lead Bilbo Baggins, while returning faces … Read More Quick Review: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)
OLDBOY (2013) BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 30, 2013 Nowhere near the masterpiece that is Park Chan-wook’s “Oldboy,” Spike Lee gives an admirable attempt at bringing the 2003 cult classic to life in American cinemas. Josh Brolin embodies the drunken misogynist, Joe Doucett that we eventually root for after he’s framed for his ex-wife’s murder and imprisoned by an unknown person for 20 years. However, his … Read More Quick Review: Oldboy (2013)
FROZEN (2013) BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 30, 2013 Entering the annals of the Disney collection, “Frozen” takes the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale “The Snow Queen” and gives it the classic Disney touch. Working in its favor are the strong female characters in Anna (Kristen Bell) and Elsa (Idina Menzel) as they sing and dance their way through Elsa’s unwanted ability to freeze things. This … Read More Quick Review: Frozen (2013)
THE CANYONS BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 30, 2013 Not intellectual but ultra sexual, “The Canyons” takes a down-and-out Lindsay Lohan and delivers a novelty in the form of nudity and sensuality. Gone are the days of “Herbie Fully Loaded” and “Mean Girls”, Lohan has completely obliterated her former Disney charm and has set on a course of rehab and full-on nude scenes. And from a … Read More Quick Review: The Canyons (2013)
PRINCE AVALANCHE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 24, 2013 David Gordon Green’s return to form, “Prince Avalanche” sees Paul Rudd and Emilie Hirsch give some of the most dramatic and spot-on performances of their careers, as two men in the backwoods painting yellow dividing lines on an all but abandoned road. With Green’s patented mix of comedy and drama, to which they become the same, his … Read More Quick Review: Prince Avalanche (2013)
WHAT’S EATING GILBERT GRAPE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 24, 2013 Before anyone like David Gordon Green in the film industry was making the strong dramatic independent films of our current generation, there were film-makers like Lasse Hallström who directed “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” that delivers on the same level as those current flock of off-beat dramas. Featuring a much younger Johnny Depp, who had already … Read More Quick Review: What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)
ELSEWHERE (2009) BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 24, 2013 As dismal as this film looks and sounds on the outside, “Elsewhere” really rises above its straight-to-DVD packaging and delivers a somewhat provocative and engaging thriller. Led by the gorgeous Anna Kendrick, her command of the character Sarah comes off like the turn Kristen Bell gives as Veronica Mars, using the assets around her to figure out … Read More Quick Review: Elsewhere (2009)
DELIVERY MAN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 24, 2013 Sadly, Vince Vaughn’s star is falling. Once on top and in the spotlight of his comedic heyday, “Delivery Man” proves that he’s just not the comedic genius we once thought him to be. Most of this can be placed on the material, with the exact script from a French-Canadian release titled “Starbuck,” written and directed by the … Read More Quick Review: Delivery Man (2013)
KILL YOUR DARLINGS BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 24, 2013 The Beat Generation has always been fascinating to me, with the Allen Ginsbergs and Jack Kerouac’s of the world, who can deny this revolution in poetry and self-expression. As the story of Kerouac becomes more and more publicized, I’ve gotten even more invested in his story and have begun to seek out his work. “Kill Your … Read More Quick Review: Kill Your Darlings (2013)
I GIVE IT A YEAR BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 24, 2013 A British romantic comedy meets humor the likes of “The Office,” the phoned-in “I Give It A Year” stars a welcoming cast with nothing to show for it. Rose Byrne, Anna Faris, and Simon Baker lead this strange rigamarole of a comedy, where Nat (Byrne) and Josh (Rafe Spall) fall in love and get … Read More Quick Review: I Give It A Year (2013)
MANIC BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 18, 2013 Filled with breakthrough performances and an edge of emotion that never quits, “Manic” delivers Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel into the world of independent cinema in a way never seen before. Gordon-Levitt’s anger-infused Lyle is undeniable to the point that one cannot take their eyes off of him. With each scene, he grows and becomes more entertaining to … Read More Quick Review: Manic (2003)
BERNIE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 18, 2013 Mixing reality with fiction, “Bernie” takes the true story of Bernie Tiede, an assistant funeral director in the small town of Carthage, Texas, and his love affair with the very much older Marjorie Nugent, whom he eventually shoots in the back and is taken to trial for, and brings in a comedic touch headed by Jack Black, who … Read More Quick Review: Bernie (2012)
INDIANA JONES AND THE TEMPLE OF DOOM BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 18, 2013 Immediately tossing the viewer into the harrowing world of Indiana Jones, “The Temple Of Doom” is a literal roller coaster ride of action and adventure, highlighting the characteristics and mannerisms that audiences loved in the original film. From the opening sequence of an antidote vial being kicked around to a car chase … Read More Quick Review: Indiana Jones and the Temple Of Doom (1984)
SAVING PRIVATE RYAN BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 17, 2013 Easily one of the best war films of all time, Steven Spielberg brings to the screen a representation of WWII’s D-day that overwhelms and captivates in the most emotional, realistic, and an unforgettable 24-minute opening sequence that blows you away while opening your eyes to the loss of the war. “Saving Private Ryan” brings an all-star … Read More Quick Review: Saving Private Ryan (1998)
DALLAS BUYERS CLUB BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 17, 2013 “Dallas Buyers Club” is a transformation for all those involved. The only film of director Jean-Marc Vallée that I’ve seen is “The Young Victoria,” which garnered minimal Oscar attention a few years ago, and to which I enjoyed, but his latest endeavor is so much deeper and rich and a passion for this story breathes from … Read More Quick Review: Dallas Buyers Club (2013)
TAKEN 2 BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 13, 2013 Just as decent an action film as the first installment, “Taken 2” finds an interesting way to follow-up the original plot and keep the story fresh and exciting. Liam Neeson returns as Bryan Mills, as he sets off for work in Istanbul. Reconnecting with his daughter (Maggie Grace) and ex-wife (Famke Janssen), they again find themselves in … Read More Quick Review: Taken 2 (2012)
ABOUT TIME BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 13, 2013 “About Time” is sweet and simple. Its simplicity comes from being a film about time travel that never explains the back story but simply defines its premise and locks it in from the start. We never know what the power holds and we learn as we go. We accept that our main character can travel through time … Read More Quick Review: About Time (2013)
GIRL MOST LIKELY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 13, 2013 Much in the same vein as “Orange County”, where a writer embraces his wacky family and finds true inspiration, “Girl Most Likely” handles the same subject matter. Imogene (Kristen Wiig), a former playwright, is living the stylish life as a debutant in New York City, on the brink of marriage with a Dutchman. But when he … Read More Quick Review: Girl Most Likely (2013)
BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 Brimming with raw emotion, the winner of this year’s Palme D’Or, “Blue Is The Warmest Color”, takes the viewer inside a living, breathing relationship between young Adele (Adèle Exarchopoulos) and an older, artistic spirit, Emma (Léa Seydoux). With strong tones in discovering one’s sexuality and the great human connection, this is a sexual coming … Read More Quick Review: Blue Is The Warmest Color (2013)
ENDER’S GAME BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 This review may act as a spoiler, so stop reading now if you wish to be completely surprised. Occasionally in working for the industry and passionately partaking in the marketing for feature films, there come causalities like “Ender’s Game,” which completely telegraph their ending. Ask anyone who actively avoids trailers and they’ll tell you that they give … Read More Quick Review: Ender’s Game (2013)
ALL IS LOST BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 Starring only Robert Redford, “All Is Lost” wastes no time settling the viewer into the lost at sea adventure that awaits. As Redford tackles a hole in his boat, giant waves from unbearable storms, and the loneliness that comes from being stranded by one’s self, director J.C. Chandor (“Margin Call”) explores the human psyche and the … Read More Quick Review: All Is Lost (2013)
MIDNIGHT COWBOY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 The star of “Midnight Cowboy” maybe Jon Voight, but the one that steals the show is Dustin Hoffman as Enrico “Ratso” Rizzo, who delivers one of the strongest character performances of his career. Voight is brilliant as the pie-eyed small-town cowboy moving to the big city to be a hustler, but without the rich and dark turn … Read More Quick Review: Midnight Cowboy (1969)
DAYS OF THUNDER BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 Capitalizing off the success of “Top Gun,” director Tony Scott and actor Tom Cruise reunite to bring about another strong drama, trading Naval aviators in for stock car racers, in “Days Of Thunder.” Cruise plays Cole Trickle, a nobody racer without a sponsor brought in by Tim Daland (Randy Quaid) to get them into the business … Read More Quick Review: Days Of Thunder (1990)
ELEKTRA LUXX BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 “Elektra Luxx” is a mess of a film, never landing on comedy or drama, bordering the line between legitimate and pseudo-pornography, the only thing saving the film is an enormous cast that is almost more enjoyable to watch than to listen or engage. The gorgeous Carla Gugino plays the pregnant pornstar of the film to which we … Read More Quick Review: Elektra Luxx (2010)
FIFTY DEAD MEN WALKING BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 Delving into a true-life story of an IRA infiltration, “Fifty Dead Men Walking” is well-acted and mostly engaging but does little to differentiate itself from any of the films in its genre. Unless this subject matter thoroughly interests you or unless you’re die-hard fans of Jim Sturgess or Ben Kingsley, chances are this film will … Read More Quick Review: Fifty Dead Men Walking (2009)
JACKASS PRESENTS: BAD GRANDPA BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 “Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa” succeeds at recreating the real people, real reaction skits that we know and love from the “Jackass” series, posing Johnny Knoxville as his 86 year-old alter ego, Irving Zisman. All would have been well had the film just been skits and even some behind the footage in between these moments. Instead, … Read More Quick Review: Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa (2013)
GROWN UPS 2 BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 With zero laughs and more bewilderment than anything, “Grown Ups 2” squanders the first film’s good fortune and makes it dreadful. Adam Sandler brings back the group of friends from the first film, including Chris Rock, David Spade, and Kevin James, as Sandler’s character Lenny has moved his family back to his hometown. It’s this setting … Read More Quick Review: Grown Ups 2 (2013)
DISTURBING BEHAVIOR BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 According to science fiction horror films, high school is one of the most unsafe places when it comes to invasions of any kind, alien or other. “Disturbing Behavior” is an interesting concept with a real-life allegory at play; we all know teenagers can be unruly, so let’s lobotomize them and make them robots. James Marsden plays the … Read More Quick Review: Disturbing Behavior (1998)
THE FROZEN GROUND BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 As a mystery thriller, “The Frozen Ground” relies a little too heavily on standard conventions, trading new and dynamic tension for based-on-a real-story authenticity. Pitting Nicolas Cage against a serial killer, played by John Cusack, should be a slam dunk. But with sub-par, barely-there performances, it feels like both men are reprising roles that worked better … Read More Quick Review: The Frozen Ground (2013)
THE CROODS BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLNOVEMBER 3, 2013 Inventive as far as animated films go, “The Croods” takes a fantastic voice cast and some incredible visuals and puts them together in what is likely one of the highlight animated films of the year. Delving in the world of troglodytes, the story of one lone family hiding safe in a cave for the rest of their … Read More Quick Review: The Croods (2013)
12 YEARS A SLAVE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 27, 2013 There’s no getting around it, “12 Years A Slave” is an intense journey of a free man who is kidnapped and sold into slavery in the 1800s. Directed by the ever incredible Steve McQueen (“Hunger” and “Shame”), the film has a rich, emotional foundation that McQueen thrives in, with lingering close-ups and uncomfortably long takes. … Read More Quick Review: 12 Years A Slave (2013)
AMERICAN GRINDHOUSE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 27, 2013 Perfect for those interested in film history, “American Grindhouse” takes a look at American exploitation films from their start in the early 1900s to the present day with directors like Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez bringing the classic nature of the film back. Focusing on giving the audience what they want, like sex, violence, and special effects, … Read More Quick Review: American Grindhouse (2010)
THE LINCOLN LAWYER BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 27, 2013 Relying entirely on its cast of characters and the performances provided, “The Lincoln Lawyer” never quite reaches the level of genius but also never takes the simple ways out. Matthew McConaughey takes a turn as Mickey Haller, an attorney meandering in the grey area of the law. He accepts back alley payments from bikers, swindles clients … Read More Quick Review: The Lincoln Lawyer (2011)
CARRIE (2013) BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 Kimberly Peirce’s “Carrie” is self-indulgent from the moment you step in, playing to an audience that has already experienced the Stephen King novel and knows the ins and outs. Even the trailer suggests this, giving away the ending in a matter of two and a half minutes. As Carrie White (Chloe Moretz) discovers her telekinetic power right … Read More Quick Review: Carrie (2013)
HALLOWEEN (1978) BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 “Halloween” invented the modern-day slasher thriller that we know today, from the stalking, the POV camera to the sexual ambiguity of the surviving lady, to the sexual dynamic that leads to most murders in a slasher film. Jamie Lee Curtis leads the crew, the only real, recognizable face of the film, and carries this franchise through decades … Read More Quick Review: Halloween (1978)
PITCH PERFECT BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 Anna Kendrick is a beautiful and talented actress, but she isn’t even able to make “Pitch Perfect” any more than a lady-orientated comedy in the vein of “Glee” and “Bring It On.” Once again, with the rag-tag group of misfits who must work through their differences to win the championship, “Pitch Perfect” relies on the same hand … Read More Quick Review: Pitch Perfect (2012)
MAGIC MIKE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 Male strippers. You’re on board, or you’re not. Regardless, Steven Soderbergh steps behind this female fantasy inducing feature “Magic Mike” which is also a partial biopic about the early life of lead actor Channing Tatum. Relying heavily on the dances of the men involved, if you have any reservations about Chippendale dancers, steer clear of this film, … Read More Quick Review: Magic Mike (2012)
RUNNER RUNNER BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 Even if “Runner Runner” straddles the line between stale and refreshing, the ensemble cast alone is enough to get people in the seats. What initially drew me to the film was the villainous performance from Ben Affleck, which we are not privy to in most of his showings. But as Ivan Block, he’s allowed to be the … Read More Quick Review: Runner Runner (2013)
GRAVITY BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 “Gravity” is many things, all of which are outstanding. “Gravity” is the best use of 3D to date, dealing on a layer of superb cinematography and directorial forethought to allow for things such as an extremely long take to open the film. “Gravity” produces the best performance of Sandra Bullock’s career, as Dr. Ryan Stone, a doctor and … Read More Quick Review: Gravity (2013)
CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS 2 BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 Nowhere near as imaginative as the original, “Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs 2” is entirely uninspired and uses the same old tricks to deliver an average sequel to a highly entertaining and quirky first film. Where the original “Cloudy” took a beloved children’s book and gave it a life all its … Read More Quick Review: Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2 (2013)
THE MAN IN THE MOON BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 “The Man In The Moon” is a coming of age classic, if only for the brilliant performance that Reese Witherspoon pulls off in her introduction showing at the young age of 15. Dealing with common young teen issues, Dani (Witherspoon) goes from a tomboy who swims naked in a nearby pond to a young … Read More Quick Review: The Man In The Moon (1991)
DON JON BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 29, 2013 Led wonderfully by the talented Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who steps into the writing and directing chair, on top of acting, “Don Jon” delivers an introspective and occasionally funny look at “porn addiction” and how it fits into a person’s life. A strange subject matter to base a film around, HitRECord’s Gordon-Levitt does a decent job of keeping the … Read More Quick Review: Don Jon (2013)
STAR TREK: INSURRECTION BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 Even for casual Star Trek fans, “Star Trek IX: Insurrection” entertains as strictly a science fiction film as well, which just so happens to have a fully developed cast of characters supporting it. Following The Next Generation crew of the Enterprise, the story arc is simple: the team travels to a planet that was secretly under … Read More Quick Review: Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
DON’T LOOK NOW BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 On the surface, “Don’t Look Now” is a chilling journey in the world of psychics and profound emotional loss. The question to ask is whether the film is terrifying or if its horror comes from the ’70s nature of the film. Horror films like “Rosemary’s Baby” and “The Birds” are made scarier by the old-fashioned feel … Read More Quick Review: Don’t Look Now (1973)
RUSH BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 The rivalry is key in Ron Howard’s “Rush,” pitting two amazing performances against one another, from Chris Hemsworth and the all-but-unknown Daniel Brühl, and creating the highlight of the film. The element that tends to sway audiences away from the film is its root in Formula 1 racing, which is not so popular here in the states, but … Read More Quick Review: Rush (2013)
CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 Loosely based on the popular children’s book of the same title, “Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs” is wholly hilarious, with off-beat humor that is fresh and a cast of voices that enthralls and entertains every step of the way. Embracing the “follow your dreams” mentality, “Cloudy” sees its protagonist Flint Lockwood (voiced … Read More Quick Review: Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs (2009)
RED 2 BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 Just as ridiculously over-the-top as the first installment, “RED 2” sees all the leading players return from the previous film and enter into another chase against their government. Bruce Willis and Mary-Louise Parker return as Frank Moses and Sarah Ross, left to their own devices and living an unexciting life. John Malkovich’s Marvin returns with some news … Read More Quick Review: RED 2 (2013)
GOSFORD PARK BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLOCTOBER 19, 2013 Anyone that has a fascination with “Clue” or “Downton Abbey” or “Boardwalk Empire” will get a kick out of 2001’s “Gosford Park.” Openly the launching point for the PBS series “Downton Abbey, ” it shows that Maggie Smith stars in both incarnations with a subtly and humor that is unmatched throughout the film. With a huge ensemble … Read More Quick Review: Gosford Park (2002)
PEEPLES BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLSEPTEMBER 22, 2013 Tyler Perry produces a take on “Meet The Parents.” Tina Gordon Chism’s “Peeples” is saved by a unique and humorous cast in Craig Robinson, Kerry Washington, and David Alan Grier. However, it is far too predictable and laughless even to be considered average. With strange plot divergences like Tyler James Williams’s involvement as the youngest son, Simon, and … Read More Quick Review: Peeples (2013)
AT ANY PRICE BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLSEPTEMBER 22, 2013 In the age of anti-heroes and villainous leading characters, “At Any Price” fits right in. With Dennis Quaid playing the always overly positive, yet deep down bad guy Henry Whipple, you love to hate the main character in Ramin Bahrani’s Iowa based film. Henry is a family man, but he’s always cheating on his wife (Kim … Read More Quick Review: At Any Price (2013)
DRINKING BUDDIES BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLSEPTEMBER 20, 2013 Set apart by its strong leads, “Drinking Buddies” is a romantic comedy that escapes the bounds of the typical formula and delivers a much more natural and realistic view, all while still pleasing and offering workable silver linings in the process. Most romantic comedies that take a direct look at how relationships are, most often, are depressing. … Read More Quick Review: Drinking Buddies (2013)
IN A WORLD… BY CHRISTOPHER HASKELLSEPTEMBER 18, 2013 You cannot deny Lake Bell’s passion. With her original and quirky glimpse into the world of voice-over narration, she launches into a comical adventure and a piece on women’s rights in the film industry and breaking the norm. In such a charming way, Bell capitalizes off the quirk that works for actresses like Zooey Deschanel. He … Read More Quick Review: In A World… (2013)
