Film Recommendation - Into The Abyss

 

★★★★★★★

Good [For rating system, see information tab at top of blog]

This is the first feature Length documentary recommendation I have posted. 'Into The Abyss' Is an independent documentary released in 2011 by German filmmaker Werner Herzog. It received much critical acclaim from festivals and consquently film critics thereafter. It follows and interviews the case of inmate Michael Perry and those afflicted with his crime, for which he has been sentenced to death.

The documentary is well-made, well filmed and well constructed, formulating several chapters as the interviews and case progresses. It has dark undertones and is exceptionally good for making you think from all different aspects of the case and the people involved. Though you do not feel empathy for the criminals involved, you do begin to question your beliefs in the whole justice system and the death penalty. This being said however, the true harrowing nature of the documentary comes from the interviews with victims family members and friends.

I would not recommend the documentary to those who prefer lighthearted viewing, as this documentary is harrowing at times, and does leave you thinking deeply. However, it is still an enjoyable film, particularly for those who are interested in criminal psychology, crime, the justice system and the overall human emotion of grief.

[Famous Film Scene] - Training Day

'Training Day' is the film that saw Denzel Washington win his first Oscar in a leading role. He had previously won one for a supporting role in 'Glory'. This scene is the ending of the film, therefore *Spoiler alert*, but I have posted it because it showcases why Washington won the deserved Oscar for his role as Alonzo Harris; one of my favorite performances.

IMDB - Training Day

Highest Earning Films Of The Last Twenty Years

This information was true on 15th Of August, 2013, and the total amounts are world wide estimated, gathered over several different websites. 

The List:

2012 - The Avengers
Budget: $220,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,514,279,000   

2011 - Harry Potter & The Deathly Hallows Part II

Budget: $250,000,000

Box Office Total: $1,328,111,000

2010 - Toy Story 3
Budget: $200,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,063,759,000 

2009 - Avatar

Budget: $240,000,000

Box Office Total: $2,783,918,000 

2008 - The Dark Knight
Budget: $185,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,002,891,000 

2007 - Pirates Of The Caribbean: At Worlds End

Budget: $300,000,000

Box Office Total: $960,996,000

2006 - Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest
Budget: $225,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,060,615,000

2005 - Star Wars: Revenge Of The Sith
Budget: $113,000,000
Box Office Total: $848,754,000

2004 - Shrek 2
Budget: $150,000,000
Box Office Total: $919,828,000 

2003 - Lord Of The Rings: Return Of The King
Budget: $94,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,141,408,000   

2002 - Spider-Man
Budget: $140,000,000
Box Office Total: $821,708,000   

2001 - Harry Potter & The Philosophers Stone
Budget: $125,000,000
Box Office Total: $974,755,000   

2000 - Mission Impossible II
Budget: $125,000,000
Box Office Total: $546,388,000   

1999 - Star Wars: The Phantom Menace
Budget: $115,000,000
Box Office Total: $1,007,044,000

1998 - Armageddon
Budget: $140,000,000
Box Off Total: $553,709,000 

1997 - Titanic
Budget: $200,000,000
Box Office Total: $2,185,672,000

1996 - Independence Day
Budget: $75,000,000
Box Office Total: $817,400,000

1995 - Die Hard with a Vengeance
Budget: $90,000,000
Box Office Total: $366,101,000 

1994 - Forrest Gump
Budget: $55,000,000
Box Office Total: $677,387,000

1993 - Jurassic Park
Budget: $63,000,000
Box Office Total: $962,504,000   

1992 - Aladdin
Budget: $28,000,000
Box Office Total: $504,050,219 

[Famous Film Scene] - Goodfellas

What more can be said about the quality of 'Goodfellas' that hasn't already been said? A truly brilliant and timeless film. In this scene, Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci) asks the famous line; 'Funny How?' - Enjoy!

IMDB - Goodfellas

[Review] The World's End - 29th July 2013

★★★★★ Average [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]

Release Date: 19th July 2013
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Director: Edgar Wright
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Writer: Edgar Wright - Simon Pegg
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Cast: Simon Pegg - Nick Frost - Martin Freeman - Eddie Marsan - Rosamund Pike - Paddy Considine

Review

'The World's End', the final chapter in Simon Pegg, Nick Frost and Edgar Wright's comedy trilogy. A long awaited film, particularly for British audiences, but also audiences around the world. Needless to say, the film had a lot to live up to - its prequels being 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz', two very popular, acclaimed films.

The narrative of the film follows five old school friends reuniting in their home town, to complete the 'golden mile', a pub crawl consisting of twelve different establishments. Simple and effect, in keeping with the narrative and premise style of 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz'. The question is, does 'The World's End' close off the trilogy in an effective manner? In a short answer, yes it does, but having said this, it does not quite reach the same level of enjoyment as its two predecessors. While 'The World's End' is a decent enough film in many ways, it didn't quite live up to expectations.

To begin with, something that I really liked about the film, and a point that I believe was important if the film was to be considered a success, is the fact that it retains the same 'British' style themes and roots. Conventions firmly established by 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz'. As with the previous two films, 'The World's End' is focused around British culture and dialect, one of the films main sources of comedy. By keeping these conventions, 'The World's End' joins the previous films as a quietly charming British comedy that people of other cultures and nationality's can still enjoy.

In addition to this, the film follows 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz' in another manner; it portrays typical British lifestyle through an extreme event or chain of events. With 'Shaun Of The Dead' it was a zombie apocalypse, and with 'Hot Fuzz' it was cult style circle of murderers, leading to 'The World's End', which introduces a Sci-Fi element to the trilogy in the form of an alien race and conspiracy. This style of British humor portrayed in a serious or supernatural situation is what gives the trilogy it's unique edge, something that has proved very successful.  

The issue with 'The World's End' doesn't come from the comedy itself, but from the changes in character and narrative structure. The film is more mature than 'Hot Fuzz' and 'Shaun Of The Dead', and for that very reason, it does not have as many laugh-out-loud moments. Instead, they have tried to introduce a darker undertone in the form of alcoholism, an aspect that I felt made the film different, but not necessarily in a good way. 'The World's End' has big shoes to fill, and you watch the film expecting frequent comic moments (which do of course occur), but instead you are presented with these more serious themes.   

A second fundamental issue I noticed with 'The World's End' was the likeablity of the characters, something that is directly related to the aforementioned serious undertone they imposed on the film. When you consider the main characters from 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz', they are all likeable, and relatable in their own ways. With Gary King, the main character in 'The World's End', the same relation does not occur. Due to his obvious demons with alcohol, the character is much more tragic, and you find yourself feeling sorry for his lifestyle, rather than relating to him. Another aspect that I felt let the film down slightly.

In addition, a third aspect that disappoints is the ending. I am not going to explain however as if you are planning to go to and see the film, this would be a drastic spoiler, but I will say, it left a lot to be desired.

'The World's End' - Not quite as good as its previous siblings, let down by slight changes in the basic structure that made 'Shaun Of The Dead' and 'Hot Fuzz' so likeable. Having said this, the film is still a relatively enjoyable watch. 

[Review] This Is The End - 24th July 2013

★★★★★★ Worth Watching [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]

Release Date: 12th June 2013
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Director: Evan Goldberg & Seth Rogen
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Writer: Seth Rogan & Evan Goldberg [Screenplay & Screenstory] Jason Stone [Idea, Short Film]
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Cast: James Franco - Seth Rogan - Jonah Hill - Jay Baruchel - Danny McBride - Craig Robinson

Review

Being a fan of the former Judd Apatow 'team', I was pleasantly surprised when news of 'This Is The End' reached my ears. Especially when you consider the cast, which, including all cameos, unites the actors from popular films like 'Pineapple Express', 'Knocked Up' and 'Superbad'.

What you have to ask yourself, like so many other comedies subject to a particular style, is whether or not your a fan! Considering Seth Rogen's input, being the co-director, co-writer and one of the stars, just ask yourself, do you like his style? If you do, then you will undoubtedly like 'This Is The End'. The film's intention is simple; to make you laugh as often and as hard as possible. Much like so many of the cast's earlier releases. Personally, being a fan of Rogen and the gang, I really enjoyed their new film.

The narrative and concept is simple, but interesting, and in some ways quite unique; while attending a party at James Franco's house, the guests are confronted with the apocalypse. To my knowledge, I have not seen another comedy/apocalypse in this style, consequently meaning viewing the film was quite refreshing. Additionally, the cast are all playing themselves, fake and exaggerated versions however (I Hope), which added to both the unique and comic elements of the film. I must also add that certain cameos throughout the film are extremely funny; watch out for Emma Watson, Rihanna & Channing Tatum in particular.

Having said this; this is not to say the film doesn't have a few negatives points. While it is slapstick obvious humor, some scenes where slightly drawn out, and for lack of a better word, silly. At times, it felt like they where trying to hard...but aside from this, on the whole, the film was very comical, in an exaggerated, easily discernible manner. 

'This Is The End' - If you like Rogen's style, then I do not doubt you will like the film. I wouldn't recommend watching it with your grandparents however, too much drug use and demonic nudity!

[Review] Man Of Steel - 17th July 2013

★★★★ Leaves Alot To Be Desired [For rating system, see information tab at the top of the blog]

Release Date: 14th June 2013
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Director: Zach Snyder
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Writers: David S. Goyer [Screenplay & Story] Christopher Nolan [Story] Jerry Siegal & Joe Shuster [Character]
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Cast: Henry Cavil - Amy Adams - Michael Shannon - Diane Lane - Russell Crowe - Laurence Fishburne - Kevin Costner - Antje Traue

Review

So arrives 'Man Of Steel', the new addition to the ‘Superman’ franchise, and arguably one of the most anticipated films of the year. There is no doubt that this film has a lot to live up to, with Christopher Nolan, director of 'The Dark Knight' trilogy and 'Inception' producing, Zack Snyder, the man responsible for 'Sucker Punch', '300' and 'Watchmen' directing, an A-List cast, and the overwhelming popularity of 'Superman' himself, the film was always going to generate a lot of excitement.

Lets begin with the positives shall we? Firstly, 'Man Of Steel' introduced a darker ascetic to the 'Superman' franchise, an element that was without a doubt the result of Nolan and Snyder's creative input. The darker element added a unique twist to the franchise, as the previous 'Superman' films have been portrayed in a lighter manner.

Secondly, somewhat obviously, the visual effects throughout the film were stunning. 'Man Of Steel' employed CGI techniques, visual editing and special effects that rivals the best visual films. This consequently means that the film was action packed to say the least, and if dazzling sequences of action are what you're looking for, then look no further than 'Man Of Steel'.

Unfortunately, however, little more of a positive nature can be said. While the cast and acting was acceptable, it was certainly nothing special, and the direction was nothing more than adequate, offering no real personal inspiration. The problems inherent within the film, stem from its writing.

The film simply sacrifices all to entertain through visuals. I have said it before, and I will defiantly say it again; 'Man Of Steel' is another stylistic film, lacking in all substance. The narrative is predictable, clichéd, and unimaginative, choosing to keep true to the same routes the previous 'Superman' films took. In addition, the dialogue throughout the film is wooden, theatrical and unrealistic, something that actually clashed with the darker, more realistic element they tried to introduce.

‘Man Of Steel’ moves at a quick pace, conforms to the basic stereotypical Hollywood narrative model, and blinds you with modern, stunning visual effects. If you insist on going to see it however, buy 3D tickets, and melt into the seat under explosions and collapsing buildings, as that is about all it has to offer!

‘Man Of Steel’ – a disappointment to say the least, I will not be rushing to see this film again any time soon.