This probably won't make much sense seeing that it's now one in the morning and it's really just my frustration that I'm on about, so it probably won't be very coherent at all. My apologies before hand for the one or two of you that may read this.
I'm getting so tired of seeing ignorant post's on facebook, myspace, or any other social site that I might visit. I understand that people have opinions, everybody is entitled to one, I don't begrudge anybody that right. But, if you're going to make some statement belittling someone or something, please freaking take the time to research and make sure what you're saying is even remotely true...just a little.
For example, there is a person on one of these sites, I won't mention which one, who keeps posting Obama bashing posts. Fine, if you don't like him tear him down, but do it with truth. I don't want to keep reading stupid, ignorant posts accusing him of being the devil because he's done something they didn't like. First of all, every time they've made a post, it's been something they've heard somebody else's opinion on and then just regurgitated it without even checking to see if it's truth. It makes that person and every person like them just look foolish. Because every time this person makes a statement, there's at least thirty comments added to it about how wrong the statement was or articles proving the accusation wrong.
I'm not saying that Obama is perfect, or that I agree with everything he's doing, this isn't about my opinion on Obama. That was just an example. But, there's more...
This person and a few others that I know, boast of their Christianity and goodness as opposed to that of others that may disagree with them on certain issues. This is one thing that will send me into defense mode quicker than anything else. I am Christian and I'm proud to admit it, but the way that some Christians act is more damaging than anything else. Those that throw their bibles in people's faces and spew nonsense about how much better Christians they are than other people are the reason that Christians have a bad name.
People were born with freedom of choice. In my eyes, God was the one who gave us that choice. I will never throw my opinion in somebodies face, I may ask them why they believe what they believe simply because I'm curious, but not because I want to argue. To me, my faith, and my walk with God is between me and Him. I have no business telling anyone that they are damned to Hell or whatever else kind of codfodder "Christians" tell people because they don't believe the way they do. Wouldn't that be a judgment? Isn't judging a sin? Then...that would be pretty hypocritical, and hypocrites are just annoying.
I have a solid relationship with God, I know what I believe, and I won't be wavered. To me the best way to teach people is to lead by example. If they see God move in my life without me having to cram it down their throat and run them off, then that is wonderful. I can't force anybody to do anything, they have to see it or feel it in their own way, on their own time. It's a totally personal journey.
Most of the outspoken Christians in this world are the hypocritical, power seeking ones and it just makes the rest of us look terrible. I wasn't always Christian either...it pretty much took God slapping me in the face for me to acknowledge Him. Because at one point in my life...I didn't believe at all. My faith has been challenged many times since then, but grows in strength each time.
But, I respect everyone's religion, or opinion, or whatever, I don't think I'm more right than anybody else. And who's to say that my God, and your God are not the same God? Religion has been the one constant throughout history, throughout cultures, throughout mankind...how do we know it didn't all originate in the same place? The way each of us embrace religion or choose not to is a combination of how we see the world, the way we've been raised, the experiences we've had, and how we relate to our surroundings.
Anyway, this has gotten too deep for me to travel this late at night. I'd better stop now or I'll just continue to ramble... Goodnight!
4.18.2010
3.24.2010
10.23.2009
Rabid Reviews: Cursed (Unrated Version)
Directed by: Wes CravenScreenplay by: Kevin Williamson
Running Time: 99 minutes
Rated: Not Rated
Main Characters: Christina Ricci, Jesse Eisenburg, Joshua Jackson, Milo Ventimiglia, Judy Greer
Cursed brought together famed horror writer/producer, Wes Craven, and horror writer, Kevin Williamson, for the first time since the Scream Trilogy. This film went through a couple years of re-shoots, and a shit ton of editing. And by a shit ton, I mean at least 75% of the movie was scraped and re-shot, and major characters were cut from the movie completely. All because Dimension Films demanded that it have a PG-13 rating rather than the R rating Craven had originally planned for it. In its defense, somehow even with all the obstacles this production team faced, they managed to salvage what they had to work with and create a decent film from the wreckage.
Brother and sister, Jimmy (Jesse Eisenburg), and Ellie (Christina Ricci), who are already dealing with the loss of their parents, are involved in a car accident on their way home one night. While trying to help the driver of the other vehicle (Shannon Elizabeth) they are attacked and mauled by a large wolf-like creature. When they start to become more socially confident and sexually alluring, they begin to realize that something is changing. Jimmy connects the attack with werewolves, and they spend the rest of the movie trying to save themselves from turning into the beast completely.
Christina Ricci (Addams Family, Black Snake Moan), whom I’ve loved since childhood, was actually a bit awkward in the beginning of this movie. Once the more assertive Ellie came out after the attack, she warmed into her character. This wasn’t her best movie, to say the least, but I’m going to attribute that to the crap material she was given to work with. If it had been a less seasoned and talented actress in this role, it would have gone down the shitter, but she was able to pull it off and create a likable character.
Jesse Eisenburg (Adventureland, Zombieland), was probably my favorite character in this movie. He had some of the more bizarre storyline, especially the whole gay sub-plot, and he definitely held the humor in his hands in this one. This guy’s acting is reminiscent of Michael Cera, but Eisenburg has more personality. He takes awkward, and adds in a dash of smartass, with a pinch of character development.
Joshua Jackson (Dawson’s Creek, Shutter) plays Jake, Ellie’s elusive boyfriend. He’s the typical, “I don’t want to get close because it scares me,” pseudo-boyfriend. When she wants him he makes himself unavailable and when she decides she’s tired of it, he wants her back. I just sort of got the douche bag vibe from his character in this. I loved Jackson in Dawson’s Creek, and he’s done well in the movies he’s been in, but I think this guy’s forte is TV. Only time will tell.
Milo Ventimiglia (Heroes), plays Bo, the boyfriend of Jimmy’s crush, and terribly hateful bully to him. This was obviously in his pre-Heroes acting career because, in my opinion, he way over acted the character. But, in his defense, he had quite the odd character to portray so maybe it called for a bit of overacting. Either way, he’s definitely matured as an actor since this movie.
Finally, Judy Greer (27 Dresses, 13 Going on 30) as Joanie, the bitchy, snide journalist who is in competition with Ellie over Jake. Personally, though her character was a bit out there sometimes, I thought she was a welcome distraction from the predictability the movie sometimes fell into. Greer is usually cast in a co-starring role, in which she excels! She had some moments in this film that just made me laugh.
I’m not sure if there was meant to be so much comedy in this movie in the beginning or if the PG-13 rating took it more in that direction. But, there were some scenes in this movie that brought out the deep down, gut laughing in me. Granted most of it was cheesy, but it still had me giggling. There was nothing scary about this movie in that it won’t have you hiding under the sheets, but there were a few scenes that made me jump. The werewolf transformation scene was obviously CGI and poorly done, at that. The werewolf itself had a decent look to it, and there was a very delightful twist involving the family dog that I rather enjoyed.
If your looking for hardcore werewolf movies, look elsewhere. But, if you’ve got a group of buddies and your down for a few frights and some corny laughter, then this is your movie! All in all, I’d recommend taking a look at this one.
Running Time: 99 minutes
Rated: Not Rated
Main Characters: Christina Ricci, Jesse Eisenburg, Joshua Jackson, Milo Ventimiglia, Judy Greer
Cursed brought together famed horror writer/producer, Wes Craven, and horror writer, Kevin Williamson, for the first time since the Scream Trilogy. This film went through a couple years of re-shoots, and a shit ton of editing. And by a shit ton, I mean at least 75% of the movie was scraped and re-shot, and major characters were cut from the movie completely. All because Dimension Films demanded that it have a PG-13 rating rather than the R rating Craven had originally planned for it. In its defense, somehow even with all the obstacles this production team faced, they managed to salvage what they had to work with and create a decent film from the wreckage.
Brother and sister, Jimmy (Jesse Eisenburg), and Ellie (Christina Ricci), who are already dealing with the loss of their parents, are involved in a car accident on their way home one night. While trying to help the driver of the other vehicle (Shannon Elizabeth) they are attacked and mauled by a large wolf-like creature. When they start to become more socially confident and sexually alluring, they begin to realize that something is changing. Jimmy connects the attack with werewolves, and they spend the rest of the movie trying to save themselves from turning into the beast completely.
Christina Ricci (Addams Family, Black Snake Moan), whom I’ve loved since childhood, was actually a bit awkward in the beginning of this movie. Once the more assertive Ellie came out after the attack, she warmed into her character. This wasn’t her best movie, to say the least, but I’m going to attribute that to the crap material she was given to work with. If it had been a less seasoned and talented actress in this role, it would have gone down the shitter, but she was able to pull it off and create a likable character.
Jesse Eisenburg (Adventureland, Zombieland), was probably my favorite character in this movie. He had some of the more bizarre storyline, especially the whole gay sub-plot, and he definitely held the humor in his hands in this one. This guy’s acting is reminiscent of Michael Cera, but Eisenburg has more personality. He takes awkward, and adds in a dash of smartass, with a pinch of character development.
Joshua Jackson (Dawson’s Creek, Shutter) plays Jake, Ellie’s elusive boyfriend. He’s the typical, “I don’t want to get close because it scares me,” pseudo-boyfriend. When she wants him he makes himself unavailable and when she decides she’s tired of it, he wants her back. I just sort of got the douche bag vibe from his character in this. I loved Jackson in Dawson’s Creek, and he’s done well in the movies he’s been in, but I think this guy’s forte is TV. Only time will tell.
Milo Ventimiglia (Heroes), plays Bo, the boyfriend of Jimmy’s crush, and terribly hateful bully to him. This was obviously in his pre-Heroes acting career because, in my opinion, he way over acted the character. But, in his defense, he had quite the odd character to portray so maybe it called for a bit of overacting. Either way, he’s definitely matured as an actor since this movie.
Finally, Judy Greer (27 Dresses, 13 Going on 30) as Joanie, the bitchy, snide journalist who is in competition with Ellie over Jake. Personally, though her character was a bit out there sometimes, I thought she was a welcome distraction from the predictability the movie sometimes fell into. Greer is usually cast in a co-starring role, in which she excels! She had some moments in this film that just made me laugh.
I’m not sure if there was meant to be so much comedy in this movie in the beginning or if the PG-13 rating took it more in that direction. But, there were some scenes in this movie that brought out the deep down, gut laughing in me. Granted most of it was cheesy, but it still had me giggling. There was nothing scary about this movie in that it won’t have you hiding under the sheets, but there were a few scenes that made me jump. The werewolf transformation scene was obviously CGI and poorly done, at that. The werewolf itself had a decent look to it, and there was a very delightful twist involving the family dog that I rather enjoyed.
If your looking for hardcore werewolf movies, look elsewhere. But, if you’ve got a group of buddies and your down for a few frights and some corny laughter, then this is your movie! All in all, I’d recommend taking a look at this one.
10.21.2009
Rabid Reviews: Year One (Theatrical & Unrated Edition)
Directed by: Harold RamisScreenplay by: Harold Ramis, Gene Stupnitsky, Lee Eisenburg
Running time: 97 minutes
Rated: Not Rated
Main characters: Jack Black, Michael Cera, Oliver Platt, David Cross, Juno Temple, June Diane Raphael
Being written and directed by Harold Ramis who is the comic genius behind Ghostbusters, Caddyshack, and Groundhog’s Day to name a few, plus using such co-writers as Gene Stupnitsky and Lee Eisenburg from The Office, this movie sets itself up for sheer comic brilliance. Not to mention it’s leading players, Jack Black, Michael Cera, Oliver Platt, and David Cross; one would think they were in for a “laugh fest“. It’s a pity this movie was just a hodgepodge of mediocre writing, and a pointless storyline.
It’s the story of two primitive tribesmen, Zed (Jack Black) the unsuccessful hunter, and Oh (Michael Cera) the emotional gatherer. They are the tribe misfits, but what more can you expect from two guys who’s names mean zero! Zed is vying for the attention of Maya (June Diane Raphael), who is looking for someone who can provide a little more than what Zed has to offer. And, Oh has his eyes set on Eema (Juno Temple), Zeds very pretty, very popular little sister.
Zed, feeling there’s more to life than hunting and gathering, decides to eat an apple from the “Tree of Knowledge”. He learns very quickly that the rest of the tribe is not pleased and he’s banished forever. After a disaster with fire, Oh is forced to join Zed on his search for life’s meaning. Along the way they discover that their former tribe has been captured as slaves and the rest of the movie is spent trying to free Eema and Maya.
During their not so epic journey, they meet Cain and Able, Abraham and Isaac, and ultimately end up in the biblical city of Sodom.
Jack Black’s (Tropic Thunder, School of Rock) performance as Zed still couldn’t begin to salvage the horrible material he was given to work with. He managed a few humorous moments, but this delightfully funny man, was just left without the funny.
Michael Cera (Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist) as Oh, was exactly the same as all of the other characters he’s played. He was excellent in Superbad, and good in Juno. After that, his awkward form of comedy just got old. This guy is capable of so much more than he brings to the table and I would love to see more range to his acting abilities. There was one scene in the movie where the tribe was doing some form of mating dance, and watching Oh dance for Eema was one of the very few times I laughed out loud. Although I prefer Black to Cera, it was Cera that pulled more laughs from me during this painful debauchery.
David Cross (Arrested Development) played the biblical character Cain, the murderous brother of Abel (cameo by Paul Rudd). He was mostly annoying more than anything else.
Oliver Platt (Three To Tango, Lake Placid), Sodom’s High Priest, was the best part of the movie. This man has yet to play a character that I haven’t enjoyed. The scenes between him and Cera were the scenes that received the most laughter from me. Platt did a lovely job with the horny, man loving priest he portrayed.
I was actually looking forward to seeing this movie because of the plethora of comedians headlining the cast, peppered with several cameos by comedy actors. I was expecting to get lost in laughter for about an hour and a half. I was egregiously misled…. This movie was full of enough crappy biblical, and sexual jokes to sink Noah’s Ark. The scenes were disjointed and the plot…who am I kidding there was no plot…I can’t even say that it was terrible because it wasn’t even there! Now keep in mind, I loved Superbad, Knocked Up, and Zack and Miri Make Porno, so it’s not that I don’t like dirty humor. This movie was just bad. This is one movie that I will not recommend. It left me staring at the credits when it was over thinking, “What in the hell did I just watch?”
Running time: 97 minutes
Rated: Not Rated
Main characters: Jack Black, Michael Cera, Oliver Platt, David Cross, Juno Temple, June Diane Raphael
Being written and directed by Harold Ramis who is the comic genius behind Ghostbusters, Caddyshack, and Groundhog’s Day to name a few, plus using such co-writers as Gene Stupnitsky and Lee Eisenburg from The Office, this movie sets itself up for sheer comic brilliance. Not to mention it’s leading players, Jack Black, Michael Cera, Oliver Platt, and David Cross; one would think they were in for a “laugh fest“. It’s a pity this movie was just a hodgepodge of mediocre writing, and a pointless storyline.
It’s the story of two primitive tribesmen, Zed (Jack Black) the unsuccessful hunter, and Oh (Michael Cera) the emotional gatherer. They are the tribe misfits, but what more can you expect from two guys who’s names mean zero! Zed is vying for the attention of Maya (June Diane Raphael), who is looking for someone who can provide a little more than what Zed has to offer. And, Oh has his eyes set on Eema (Juno Temple), Zeds very pretty, very popular little sister.
Zed, feeling there’s more to life than hunting and gathering, decides to eat an apple from the “Tree of Knowledge”. He learns very quickly that the rest of the tribe is not pleased and he’s banished forever. After a disaster with fire, Oh is forced to join Zed on his search for life’s meaning. Along the way they discover that their former tribe has been captured as slaves and the rest of the movie is spent trying to free Eema and Maya.
During their not so epic journey, they meet Cain and Able, Abraham and Isaac, and ultimately end up in the biblical city of Sodom.
Jack Black’s (Tropic Thunder, School of Rock) performance as Zed still couldn’t begin to salvage the horrible material he was given to work with. He managed a few humorous moments, but this delightfully funny man, was just left without the funny.
Michael Cera (Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist) as Oh, was exactly the same as all of the other characters he’s played. He was excellent in Superbad, and good in Juno. After that, his awkward form of comedy just got old. This guy is capable of so much more than he brings to the table and I would love to see more range to his acting abilities. There was one scene in the movie where the tribe was doing some form of mating dance, and watching Oh dance for Eema was one of the very few times I laughed out loud. Although I prefer Black to Cera, it was Cera that pulled more laughs from me during this painful debauchery.
David Cross (Arrested Development) played the biblical character Cain, the murderous brother of Abel (cameo by Paul Rudd). He was mostly annoying more than anything else.
Oliver Platt (Three To Tango, Lake Placid), Sodom’s High Priest, was the best part of the movie. This man has yet to play a character that I haven’t enjoyed. The scenes between him and Cera were the scenes that received the most laughter from me. Platt did a lovely job with the horny, man loving priest he portrayed.
I was actually looking forward to seeing this movie because of the plethora of comedians headlining the cast, peppered with several cameos by comedy actors. I was expecting to get lost in laughter for about an hour and a half. I was egregiously misled…. This movie was full of enough crappy biblical, and sexual jokes to sink Noah’s Ark. The scenes were disjointed and the plot…who am I kidding there was no plot…I can’t even say that it was terrible because it wasn’t even there! Now keep in mind, I loved Superbad, Knocked Up, and Zack and Miri Make Porno, so it’s not that I don’t like dirty humor. This movie was just bad. This is one movie that I will not recommend. It left me staring at the credits when it was over thinking, “What in the hell did I just watch?”
10.18.2009
Rabid Reviews: About A Boy
Directed by: Chris Weitz and Paul WeitzScreenplay by: Peter Hedges, Chris Weitz, Paul Weitz
Running Time: 101 minutes
Rated: PG-13
Main Characters: Hugh Grant, Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, Rachel Weisz, Natalia Tena
This film was based on the novel of the same name, written by, Nick Hornby. Hornby has also penned such bestsellers as, High Fidelity, and Fever Pitch. Both of which were successfully adapted into motion picture films.
This is the story of Will Freeman (Hugh Grant), a man determined to remain unattached and accountable only for himself. He is self-centered, materialistic, and for all intents and purposes, an extremely shallow human being. After being set up on a date with a single mother, with whom he has a short-lived relationship, she breaks up with him because she has issues with her child’s father. Will likes the idea of not having to be the one to end the relationships, and decides that single mothers are the way to go. He then joins a single parents group, creates a made-up child named Ned, and lands himself a date with single parent Suzie, in the first meeting.
Then we are introduced to Marcus (Nicholas Hoult), a young boy with the weight of the world on his shoulders. He is dealing with being bullied at school because of the eccentricities that make up who he is, topped off with a suicidal mother played by, Toni Collette. Marcus’ mother, Fiona, is not doing well and her friend Suzie (Victoria Smurfit), brings him on the date between her and Will. After the date, Will and Suzie take Marcus home only to find his mother unconscious on the sofa after an overdose. She is rushed to the hospital and Will decides that the whole situation was too much drama for him so he tries to bow out of their lives. Unbeknownst to Will, Marcus has other plans.
Marcus decides that he needs a third person in his life as backup for when things go wrong, and he decides that Will is the perfect person for the job.
This film is a wonderful story of the tragedy that life can hold, and the love and compassion that can be brought out in people. It dealt with some very heavy issues, but the comedy played well alongside it and seemed to give the movie a delightful balance. The Weitz brothers, who also directed American Pie, proved without a shadow of a doubt that they are completely capable of making a movie with substance, while still being able to add their trademark humor.
Grant did a magnificent job portraying Will. He was completely unlikable in the beginning, but when he opened himself to the people around him, his character became very endearing. Much different than the roles he had played before this, the character of Will was much closer to Grant’s own personality. His flare for comedy really came out in this movie. Not only with the excellent delivery of lines, but in the way he was able to portray it through facial expressions and actions. Not having been the greatest fan of Hugh Grant in the past, this movie changed my mind.
Hoult’s job as Marcus was remarkably well done for a beginning actor, a child actor at that. Sometimes child actors can bring more range and realism to a role than that of a seasoned adult actor. He had only been in a few tv roles before this movie, and proved that his success in the role was not from childish good looks, but solid acting ability. Most of the difficult subject matter rested on his shoulders and he was able to pull it off superbly.
Collette has always been a favorite of mine, and she continues to carry on that role as Fiona, Marcus’ depressed mother. With a little bit of make-up and a lot of brilliant acting, she came across as a worn down woman at the edge of giving up on everything. She was wonderful to watch and easy to empathize with.
Rachel Weisz and Natalia Tena both had small roles as the love interests of Will and Marcus. Weisz was charming and pleasing in her role as usual, and Tena portrayed rough around the edges Ellie to perfection.
All in all, this movie wasn’t on the edge of your seat exciting, or awe inspiringly life altering. It was simply the story of how just one person can change your life forever, and in that respect it was fantastic.
Running Time: 101 minutes
Rated: PG-13
Main Characters: Hugh Grant, Nicholas Hoult, Toni Collette, Rachel Weisz, Natalia Tena
This film was based on the novel of the same name, written by, Nick Hornby. Hornby has also penned such bestsellers as, High Fidelity, and Fever Pitch. Both of which were successfully adapted into motion picture films.
This is the story of Will Freeman (Hugh Grant), a man determined to remain unattached and accountable only for himself. He is self-centered, materialistic, and for all intents and purposes, an extremely shallow human being. After being set up on a date with a single mother, with whom he has a short-lived relationship, she breaks up with him because she has issues with her child’s father. Will likes the idea of not having to be the one to end the relationships, and decides that single mothers are the way to go. He then joins a single parents group, creates a made-up child named Ned, and lands himself a date with single parent Suzie, in the first meeting.
Then we are introduced to Marcus (Nicholas Hoult), a young boy with the weight of the world on his shoulders. He is dealing with being bullied at school because of the eccentricities that make up who he is, topped off with a suicidal mother played by, Toni Collette. Marcus’ mother, Fiona, is not doing well and her friend Suzie (Victoria Smurfit), brings him on the date between her and Will. After the date, Will and Suzie take Marcus home only to find his mother unconscious on the sofa after an overdose. She is rushed to the hospital and Will decides that the whole situation was too much drama for him so he tries to bow out of their lives. Unbeknownst to Will, Marcus has other plans.
Marcus decides that he needs a third person in his life as backup for when things go wrong, and he decides that Will is the perfect person for the job.
This film is a wonderful story of the tragedy that life can hold, and the love and compassion that can be brought out in people. It dealt with some very heavy issues, but the comedy played well alongside it and seemed to give the movie a delightful balance. The Weitz brothers, who also directed American Pie, proved without a shadow of a doubt that they are completely capable of making a movie with substance, while still being able to add their trademark humor.
Grant did a magnificent job portraying Will. He was completely unlikable in the beginning, but when he opened himself to the people around him, his character became very endearing. Much different than the roles he had played before this, the character of Will was much closer to Grant’s own personality. His flare for comedy really came out in this movie. Not only with the excellent delivery of lines, but in the way he was able to portray it through facial expressions and actions. Not having been the greatest fan of Hugh Grant in the past, this movie changed my mind.
Hoult’s job as Marcus was remarkably well done for a beginning actor, a child actor at that. Sometimes child actors can bring more range and realism to a role than that of a seasoned adult actor. He had only been in a few tv roles before this movie, and proved that his success in the role was not from childish good looks, but solid acting ability. Most of the difficult subject matter rested on his shoulders and he was able to pull it off superbly.
Collette has always been a favorite of mine, and she continues to carry on that role as Fiona, Marcus’ depressed mother. With a little bit of make-up and a lot of brilliant acting, she came across as a worn down woman at the edge of giving up on everything. She was wonderful to watch and easy to empathize with.
Rachel Weisz and Natalia Tena both had small roles as the love interests of Will and Marcus. Weisz was charming and pleasing in her role as usual, and Tena portrayed rough around the edges Ellie to perfection.
All in all, this movie wasn’t on the edge of your seat exciting, or awe inspiringly life altering. It was simply the story of how just one person can change your life forever, and in that respect it was fantastic.
Rabid Reviews: The Fall
Directed by: Tarsem SinghScreenplay by: Dan Gilroy, Nico Soultanakis, and Tarsem Singh
Running Time: 117 minutes
Rated: R
Main Characters: Catinca Untaru, Lee Pace, Justine Waddell, Daniel Caltagirone, Marcus Wesley, Robin Smith, Jeetu Verma, Kim Uylenbroek, Leo Bill, Emil Hostina
This film is a beautifully told tail of imagination, and redemption. The opening scene was filmed in black and white, put in slow motion, and set to Beethoven’s 7th Symphony. Absolutely wonderful opening to a truly magical movie. Little does the viewer know that it is actually the events leading up to what happens in the film. The opening scene depicts a movie being filmed, and the stuntman, Roy (Lee Pace), performing a dangerous stunt to impress his girlfriend. The stunt goes wrong when he falls, breaking his legs, and landing him in a hospital. There he meets a young girl, Alexandria (Catinca Untaru), also there because of a fall, whom he befriends and begins to tell a colossal fairytale.
It is a tale of six men: a slave, an Indian, an explosives expert, Charles Darwin, a masked bandit, and a mystic; who each in their own right have set out to kill the evil Governor Odious. As Roy tells the story it is shown through the imagination of Alexandria, who in turn, uses people from her own life to depict each character. Thus, giving several characters dual roles much like The Wizard of Oz. Being that it was seen through her eyes, some of the details are fit to what she would imagine. Such as the Indian was supposed to be a Native American Indian, but she envisions him as a man from India. Roy’s story also reflects the way he is feeling about his life during the scenes.
Ultimately, although he genuinely likes Alexandria, he is using the story to coax her into stealing Morphine for him so that he can end his life. He’s just lost his girlfriend who left him for the star of the movie he was performing the stunt for, and he’s very depressed and suicidal. As the lines between the enchanting tale he is weaving and reality begin to blur, Alexandria herself begins to take part in the story and helps to cultivate the direction the ending takes.
The movie was filmed on location in more than eighteen different countries around the world, and took four years to film. It was written and directed by Tarsem Singh, also known for, The Cell. It was premiered at the 2006 Toronto Film Festival, and was released to limited audiences. The theatrical release in 2008 was presented by David Fincher (Fight Club), and Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich, Adaptation). The scenery, panoramic views, and use of color in the movie were absolutely breathtaking! Largely financed by Tarsem, himself, he was able to make the movie what he had envisioned for it. There was one scene in particular, where Roy was telling Alexandria of Alexander the Great. It was filmed in the desert, with the backdrop of the golden dunes contrasted with the bright blue sky, and the stark red coloring the in the soldiers uniforms…it was some of the most gorgeous use of color and scenery that I have ever seen. He took a mostly bland scenario or view, and turned it into a masterpiece. All of the scenes were filmed in this way, but that one just sticks out in my mind.
As far as the characters go, they couldn’t have been better cast. Little Catinca Untaru who played Alexandria, was the most adorable little girl. This was the Romanian child actors first film, and an awe-inspiring start to what will most likely be a long and acclaimed career. She was still in the process of learning English while the movie was filming and sometimes didn’t understand what Pace’s character was saying to her. It lent to the charm of the dynamic between the two. Her speaking parts were mostly unscripted or loosely scripted. Tarsem, used her lack of understanding and her childish wonder and awe at the story to create the realism of the relationship between the two characters. She wasn’t told what was going to happen in the story beforehand and learned as the movie progressed. Also, for the first seven months of filming, Catinca believed that Lee Pace was actually wheelchair bound and unable to walk. I loved that Tarsem went in this direction for the movie because it created an innocence to Catinca’s acting and reactions to her co-star and the fairytale aspect of the film. I was very impressed.
Lee Pace (Pushing Daisies, Wonderfalls) did an absolutely remarkable job bringing two characters to life. His interactions with Catinca brought out the best in her abilities. He presented a realism in his character’s depression that we all have been able to relate to at some point in our lives. He was absolutely marvelous and I will be checking out Pushing Daisies because of his character’s portrayal in this movie.
I can’t believe that this movie wasn’t more widely advertised. It truly was a sleeper hit. It was a story about the redemptive powers of magnificent story telling. The only word I could use to describe it is, transcendent! You have got to check it out! Take my word for it, you will not be disappointed.
Running Time: 117 minutes
Rated: R
Main Characters: Catinca Untaru, Lee Pace, Justine Waddell, Daniel Caltagirone, Marcus Wesley, Robin Smith, Jeetu Verma, Kim Uylenbroek, Leo Bill, Emil Hostina
This film is a beautifully told tail of imagination, and redemption. The opening scene was filmed in black and white, put in slow motion, and set to Beethoven’s 7th Symphony. Absolutely wonderful opening to a truly magical movie. Little does the viewer know that it is actually the events leading up to what happens in the film. The opening scene depicts a movie being filmed, and the stuntman, Roy (Lee Pace), performing a dangerous stunt to impress his girlfriend. The stunt goes wrong when he falls, breaking his legs, and landing him in a hospital. There he meets a young girl, Alexandria (Catinca Untaru), also there because of a fall, whom he befriends and begins to tell a colossal fairytale.
It is a tale of six men: a slave, an Indian, an explosives expert, Charles Darwin, a masked bandit, and a mystic; who each in their own right have set out to kill the evil Governor Odious. As Roy tells the story it is shown through the imagination of Alexandria, who in turn, uses people from her own life to depict each character. Thus, giving several characters dual roles much like The Wizard of Oz. Being that it was seen through her eyes, some of the details are fit to what she would imagine. Such as the Indian was supposed to be a Native American Indian, but she envisions him as a man from India. Roy’s story also reflects the way he is feeling about his life during the scenes.
Ultimately, although he genuinely likes Alexandria, he is using the story to coax her into stealing Morphine for him so that he can end his life. He’s just lost his girlfriend who left him for the star of the movie he was performing the stunt for, and he’s very depressed and suicidal. As the lines between the enchanting tale he is weaving and reality begin to blur, Alexandria herself begins to take part in the story and helps to cultivate the direction the ending takes.
The movie was filmed on location in more than eighteen different countries around the world, and took four years to film. It was written and directed by Tarsem Singh, also known for, The Cell. It was premiered at the 2006 Toronto Film Festival, and was released to limited audiences. The theatrical release in 2008 was presented by David Fincher (Fight Club), and Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich, Adaptation). The scenery, panoramic views, and use of color in the movie were absolutely breathtaking! Largely financed by Tarsem, himself, he was able to make the movie what he had envisioned for it. There was one scene in particular, where Roy was telling Alexandria of Alexander the Great. It was filmed in the desert, with the backdrop of the golden dunes contrasted with the bright blue sky, and the stark red coloring the in the soldiers uniforms…it was some of the most gorgeous use of color and scenery that I have ever seen. He took a mostly bland scenario or view, and turned it into a masterpiece. All of the scenes were filmed in this way, but that one just sticks out in my mind.
As far as the characters go, they couldn’t have been better cast. Little Catinca Untaru who played Alexandria, was the most adorable little girl. This was the Romanian child actors first film, and an awe-inspiring start to what will most likely be a long and acclaimed career. She was still in the process of learning English while the movie was filming and sometimes didn’t understand what Pace’s character was saying to her. It lent to the charm of the dynamic between the two. Her speaking parts were mostly unscripted or loosely scripted. Tarsem, used her lack of understanding and her childish wonder and awe at the story to create the realism of the relationship between the two characters. She wasn’t told what was going to happen in the story beforehand and learned as the movie progressed. Also, for the first seven months of filming, Catinca believed that Lee Pace was actually wheelchair bound and unable to walk. I loved that Tarsem went in this direction for the movie because it created an innocence to Catinca’s acting and reactions to her co-star and the fairytale aspect of the film. I was very impressed.
Lee Pace (Pushing Daisies, Wonderfalls) did an absolutely remarkable job bringing two characters to life. His interactions with Catinca brought out the best in her abilities. He presented a realism in his character’s depression that we all have been able to relate to at some point in our lives. He was absolutely marvelous and I will be checking out Pushing Daisies because of his character’s portrayal in this movie.
I can’t believe that this movie wasn’t more widely advertised. It truly was a sleeper hit. It was a story about the redemptive powers of magnificent story telling. The only word I could use to describe it is, transcendent! You have got to check it out! Take my word for it, you will not be disappointed.
10.13.2009
Rabid Reviews: The Girl From Paris
Directed by: Christian CarionWritten by: Eric Assous
Running time: 103 mins
Rated: Not Rated
Main characters: Michel Serrault, Mahtilde Seigner, and Jean-Paul Roussillon
This is the story of a Parisian woman, Sandrine (Mahtilde Seigner), who gets fed up with her life as an internet instructor. She has always dreamed of moving to the country and running a farm on her own. Strong-willed and determined, she leaves her life behind and buys a goat farm in France. She purchases the farm from a mean tempered widower, Adrian (Michel Serrault), who wishes to stay on at the farm for another 18 months until he can move to the city. The movie depicts the trials and errors she faces learning to farm the land and the deep friendship that forms between Sandrine, Adrian, and Jean (Jean-Paul Roussillon); Adrian‘s only friend.
I have yet to see a French movie that I didn’t like! This movie was grandiose in it’s simple nature and subtle flow. It moved at a slow steady pace, but kept me interested the entire time. It is definitely not a mega blockbuster hit, but for it’s realism it hit the ball out of the park. The beautiful French countryside is the perfect backdrop with its almost poetic views, and adds a warmth to the movie. The director carefully captured each perfectly portrayed nuance of emotion from these actors, which added great depth. The strong bond the two main characters slowly form throughout the movie as they begin to realize how very much alike they are ,is very touching. The theme of the young and the old dealing with being alone in life and death was as poignant as it was heartfelt.
This movie was just beautifully done. I will have to warn you, it is a French movie therefore, it has English subtitles. And also, there were a few scenes of slaughtering animals that was very graphic. Other than that, if you like slower moving, indie type films with an underlying message, this movie is for you.
Running time: 103 mins
Rated: Not Rated
Main characters: Michel Serrault, Mahtilde Seigner, and Jean-Paul Roussillon
This is the story of a Parisian woman, Sandrine (Mahtilde Seigner), who gets fed up with her life as an internet instructor. She has always dreamed of moving to the country and running a farm on her own. Strong-willed and determined, she leaves her life behind and buys a goat farm in France. She purchases the farm from a mean tempered widower, Adrian (Michel Serrault), who wishes to stay on at the farm for another 18 months until he can move to the city. The movie depicts the trials and errors she faces learning to farm the land and the deep friendship that forms between Sandrine, Adrian, and Jean (Jean-Paul Roussillon); Adrian‘s only friend.
I have yet to see a French movie that I didn’t like! This movie was grandiose in it’s simple nature and subtle flow. It moved at a slow steady pace, but kept me interested the entire time. It is definitely not a mega blockbuster hit, but for it’s realism it hit the ball out of the park. The beautiful French countryside is the perfect backdrop with its almost poetic views, and adds a warmth to the movie. The director carefully captured each perfectly portrayed nuance of emotion from these actors, which added great depth. The strong bond the two main characters slowly form throughout the movie as they begin to realize how very much alike they are ,is very touching. The theme of the young and the old dealing with being alone in life and death was as poignant as it was heartfelt.
This movie was just beautifully done. I will have to warn you, it is a French movie therefore, it has English subtitles. And also, there were a few scenes of slaughtering animals that was very graphic. Other than that, if you like slower moving, indie type films with an underlying message, this movie is for you.
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