Star Wars Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith [2005]

The Star Wars saga comes to an end in style as Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen) finally succumbs to the dark side, after a desperate attempt to protect his wife Padme (Natalie Portman) from the hands of death. His longtime friendship with Obi Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) ends with an incredible lightsaber fight on planet mustaphar, and we witness the birth of Darth Vader in one of the most iconic scenes ever made (possibly my favorite of the whole series). Long, sometimes a bit slow, but masterfully told by Georges Lucas, and delivers an emotional finale as the prequel trilogy reaches its conclusion. Yoda is terrific in every fight scene he appears in! 

Fun fact: “The images of the volcanic eruption on Mustafar was real footage of Mt. Etna in Italy which was erupting at the time of production.”

Rating: 3.5/4

Requiem For A Dream [2000]

Disturbing (to say the least) movie from director Darren Aronofsky about four ambitious people who watch their lives go down the drain when their drug addictions go out of control. Meanwhile, the mother of one of those young men, living in her own Brooklyn appartment drifts into a dream state after getting hooked on diet pills. The actors give it their best, and director Aronofsky desperately tries to picture the struggle of these young people on a daily basis, but it all adds up to zero (though the movie has many loyal fans). Spending time with those drug addicts is no fun at all. Depressing and disappointing, to put it mildly.

Fun fact: “Most movies contain 600 to 700 cuts. Requiem for a Dream contains over 2,000.”

 Rating: 2/4

Up [2009]

Wonderful animated movie from Disney/Pixar about a 78 year old man who decides to fulfill his lifelong dream: to visit the wilds of South America and the spot he and his late wife always wanted to settle down in. By tying thousands of balloons to his home, he sets out on the adventure of a lifetime, accompanied by a little boy from the explorer troop. Funny, sweet and deeply touching, “Up” deservedly won an oscar for best animated feature of the year 2009; it’s certainly one of the most moving films I’ve ever seen (a real tearjerker some might say). Michael Giacchino’s unforgettable score adds charm to it aswell. A brilliant achievement in every sense of the word.

Fun fact: “First film to be nominated for Academy Awards for both Best Picture and Best Animated Feature.”

 Rating: 3.5/4

The Social Network [2010]

Everything you need to know about Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of the social networking site facebook, his lawsuit against co-founder Eduardo Saverin and the Winklevoss brothers (who claimed he’d stolen their idea) can all be found in David Fincher’s movie “The Social Network”. It’s one of the most talked movies of the year, and I’m happy to say that it lives up to the hype. It’s a completely absorbing story, masterfully orchestrated by Fincher, and it’s all about the invention of facebook as told from several points of views (which makes it extra fun). Jesse Eisenberg (“Adventureland”, “Zombieland”…) has been really good these last few years, but his role as Mark Zuckerberg will most definitely put him on the map permanently. He absolutely nailed his portrayal of the computer genius, whose mouth works faster than his brain (he literally can’t stop talking), and he is surrounded by a fine cast aswell (especially Andrew Garfield as Zuckerberg’s long time pal). “The Social Network” is a movie that you will probably see for curiosity’s sake  (afterall we’re all facebook members), and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed; it’s one of the finest movies of the year.

Fun fact: Anis Tabet wrote this review-3 minutes ago via facebook. comment. like.

Rating: 3.5/4

A Prophet [2009]

Fantastic movie about a young arab man (Tahar Rahim) who is sent to a french prison, where he befriends a mafia kingpin called Cesare Luciani. Luciani forces him to commit a terrible crime (which haunts him through the whole film), and then gives him support and protection in his gang. The young man also learns how to deal drugs and even tries to mastermind some business of his own. Powerful and violent, this amazing movie will definitely blow you away; the acting is first rate (especially Niels Arestrup in the role of the mafia lord), and it keeps coming up with twists and turns right through the closing credits. One of the best movies of its genre; a must see.

 Rating: 3.5/4

Dogville [2003]

Engaging drama set in the 1930’s about a fugitive (Nicole Kidman) who finds refuge in a small american town. In exchange, she agrees to work for the people who welcomed her, not knowing that her showing up in their small community will eventually have a dark and disturbing effect on them. If you get over the fact that this movie is actually a theatrical staging, then you’re in for a treat. It’s long, sometimes too talky, but also thought provoking and masterfully told. The whole cast is great, but Kidman is a standout in this unique tale of morality. Narrated by a wonderful John Hurt. Followed by a sequel: “Manderlay”.

Fun fact: “Was a critics’ favorite to win at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival, but received no prizes.”

Rating: 3/4

Cyrus [2010]

The presence of comedic actors like Jonah Hill and John C. Reilly might lead you to think that “Cyrus” is strictly for laughs, when in fact it’s a serious film disguised as a comedy. I can’t say I was thrilled by it, but I enjoyed most of it. Reilly plays a divorced man who is encouraged by his ex wife (Catherine Keener) to attend a party, where he meets a very attractive woman (Marisa Tomei) who likes him instantly. Problem is: she lives with her 22 year old son (Jonah Hill), and the dude is not about to let anyone disrupt his relationship with his mother. Usually with Hollywood movies, this is the part where the rivalry between the two turns into a comedy “battle”, so basically if you’re expecting something all too familiar, then “Cyrus” is not the movie for you. But if you don’t mind something new or should I say “more original”, then give it chance; it might not be a great movie, but when the actors are this good, it’s hard to complain.

 

Rating: 2.5/4

Capote [2005]

“Sometimes when I think of how good my book is going to be, I can’t breathe.”

Philip Seymour Hoffman offers a unique and brilliant performance as Truman Capote, one of the most famous authors in American history. The movie follows the events that took place in Kansas in 1959, where a family was brutally murdered “in cold blood” by two young men. Capote is sent to write an article about the incident and soon begins to develop a relationship with one of the convicts (played by Clifton Collins Jr.). The events dramatized here eventually inspired the author to write one of his most famous books “In Cold Blood”. A powerful movie in every sense of the word; Hoffman is a must see in his oscar winning performance.

 Rating: 3.5/4

The Other Man [2009]

“How Dare You?”

Entirely watchable (if uneven) drama about a man who suspects his wife of adultery,  and decides to track down and murder “the other man” in her life.  Liam Neeson is in fine form as the jealous husband, and Antonio Banderas is equally good as his rival. But the film’s main problem is that it never reaches a satisfying conclusion, and leaves us wanting more.  Too bad, especially when the cast is so good. Barely released in theatres (for unknown reasons), but still worth checking out. Written and directed by  Richard Eyre (“Notes On a Scandal”, “Iris”…).

 Fub fact: Laura Linney replaced Juliette Binoche in the role of Neeson’s wife lisa.

 

Rating: 2.5/4

Coco Before Chanel [2009]

Interesting look at the life of “Coco Chanel” before she became the legendary coutourier who inspired a generation of women, and became a symbol of “style” and “freedom”. Audrey Tautou is well cast as the title role, and she is surrounded by plenty of colourful characters aswell. This biography is told in a straighforward style, and that’s why I was satisfied by it; it avoids all sorts of cliches. Stylish in every detail (especially Alexander Desplat’s score). French title:  “Coco avant Chanel”.

Fun fact: “From 1934 to 1971 Coco Chanel made the Hotel Ritz, Paris, France her home. A suite, in honor of her memory, has been named after her: the Coco Chanel Suite.”

 

Rating: 3/4

Julie And Julia [2009]

Delightful movie based on 2 true stories about a woman (Amy Adams) who decides to cook all 524 recipes in Jula Child’s book “Mastering the Art of French Cooking”. The result is a delicious 2 hour long movie filled with humour, good food and terrific acting. Meryl Streep has never been better (she was nominated for an oscar for a 16th time), and the whole cast seems to be having a great time; and so are we! “Julie And Julia” is a feel good movie and it will definitely leave a smile on your face. Stanley Tucci is a treat to watch as Julia Child’s husband.

Fun fact: “Paul Child was 10 years older than Julia Child, however in reality Meryl Streep is 11 years older than ‘Stanley Tucci’.”

 

Rating: 3/4

Invictus [2009]

Clind Eastwood is a genius. Being a fan of his work for many years now, I always expect something good every time he releases a new movie. “Invictus” is another fine example of how brilliant that guy really is. It’s a movie that has a lot to offer. Morgan Freeman (who else?) is perfectly cast as newly elected president Nelson Mandela who decides to bring his people together by organizing the rugby world cup in South Africa. Matt Damon plays the captain of the rugby team and he does a fine job aswell. The reason why this movie worked for me is mainly because it’s based on real events. The message is powerful and universal: sports can bring a divided nation together again. Take it from Mr. Mandela; he did it in 1995 and again in 2010 with the FIFA world cup. As for Eastwood, he’s on top again with another fine movie. Respect.

Rating: 3/4

Frost/Nixon [2008]

I had high expectations for “Frost/Nixon” and I wasn’t disappointed at all. I even got more than I wished for: an amazing 2 hours of brilliant filmmaking. Frank Langhella plays president Richard Nixon who got caught up in the watergate scandal and was forced to resign from his post. But the story focuses more on the interview that was conducted 3 years later by british talk show host David Frost and in which he wanted to pressure Nixon to admit his terrible “mistakes”. “Frost/Nixon” is a tense, well acted movie, but it’s also a fine lesson in history; I simply loved it. Ron Howard has finally redeemed himself (after the horrible “Da Vinci Code”); he’s such a fine director and I think this movie easily ranks  among his best work. Kudos to the stars (Frank Langella and Michael Sheen). One of the best movies of the last decade.

Rating: 3.5/4

The Town [2010]

“The Town” is by far one of the best movies of the year. It’s a clever, well directed film, with a solid cast and story; I couldn’t ask for more. I loved Ben Affleck’s directorial debut “Gone Baby Gone”, but he outdid himself here. What’s more, he gives an amazing performance in the movie’s leading role as a longtime thief who falls in love with Claire (Rebecca Hall), a bank manager  connected to one of his earlier heists. What makes “The Town” a great movie in my opinion is the fact that Affleck’s character is torn between his love to claire, and his loyalty to his lifelong partners. But he also has to deal with an FBI agent who wants to bring him and his crew down. You might think that there aren’t any new ways to picture bank robberies, car chases and even gun shootouts, but “The Town” is here to prove you wrong; every scene is amazingly well crafted and gripping  (we owe it all to Ben Affleck and his cinematographer Robert Elswit). Most of the movies playing at the multiplex right now are either junk or instantly forgettable, “The Town” is a rare exception, and I really hope it gets the audience it deserves. Well done Mr.Aflleck.

Rating: 3.5/4

The Hole [2010]

Lame “horror” flick about two brothers who find a mysterious hole in their new house’s basement that leads to the darkest places of their fears and nightmares. You can probably guess the rest. Even the actors look rather bored here; they try to deal with the issue as if it was a funny joke. Funny indeed. “The Hole” is definitely one of the worst movies I’ve seen this year. But then again, It might appeal more to teenagers of a certain age (or maybe not). Skip it. Not to be confused with the 2001 movie of the same name.

Funny goofs: “When Dane dives into the pool and pulls Lucas out it cuts to a close up of Lucas’ face, and his hair is dry.”

 

Rating: 1.5/4

The Circus [1928]

Brilliant Chaplin movie finds the tramp accidentally joining the circus, with hilarious consequences. Many critics do not consider this as excellent as “City Lights” or “Modern Times”, but there’s still plenty to enjoy here, especially the tightrope walking finale. There’s no doubt that Chaplin’s comedy is still fresh and funny today as it was some 80 years ago (I watched this one with a packed audience and everyone was laughing and cheering!). What’s more, he received a special oscar for writing, acting, producing and directing this. Great stuff!

Fun fact: “In the 1969 re-issue, the 80-year-old Chaplin sang the title song.”

 

Rating: 3.5/4

I Love You Phillip Morris [2010]

 I was very disappointed with Jim Carrey’s latest movie. We don’t get to see much of him anymore, but I always expect something good from him. Not the case with “I Love You Philip Morris”, a movie about a married man who turns gay after a sudden accident. His new lifestyle involves cons and frauds, before ending up in a state penitentiary where he meets the shy and sensitive Philip Morris. Strange vehicle for the talented Carrey who obviously deserves more than just an ok movie. What’s more, Ewan McGregor is totally wasted as Carrey’s love partner (I just couldn’t buy it). Based on a true story.

Fun fact: “In the last courtroom scene of the movie the real Phillip Morris can be seen standing next to Jim Carrey”.

Rating: 2/4

Rear Window [1954]

Stylish Hitchcock movie about a wheelchair bound photographer (James Stewart) who spends his time spying on his neighbors from his window appartment. One day he becomes convinced that one of his neighbors has killed and buried his wife. With the help of his girlfriend (Grace Kelly) and his nurse, they decide to lead their own private investigation. I’ve enjoyed almost every Hitchcock movie I’ve seen, but for some reason, “Rear Window” will always be my favourite. It’s a movie that has aged perfectly well; I’m sure it’s still as suspenseful as it was over 50 years ago. So well made, it inspired a TV remake in 1997 with Christopher Reeves, and more recently a movie called “Disturbia” (I’m sure you’re familiar with this one). One of the all time greats!

 Rating: 4/4

Eat Pray Love [2010]

I guess the best way to describe this movie would be to say that it’s not for every taste. It might appeal more to women of a certain age, and probably to those who are familiar with the book. I’ve never read the book, but I can honestly say that I enjoyed “Eat Pray Love” despite all its faults. It’s a perfect showcase for Julia Roberts who plays an unhappy married woman who, after her divorce, decides to travel around the world in order to find herself. The whole movie is a journey of self discovery in which Robert’s character discovers great food, beautiful locations, and even love. It’s a long journey, and I think it’s the reason why I lost interest in the story towards the end; they could have easily trimmed a bit. But still, and unlike most of the reviews I’ve read, “Eat Pray Love” is actually not bad at all. Hadi Subiyanto steals the show as a balinese shaman called Ketut (he’s amazing!).

 Rating: 2.5/4

Diminished Capacity [2008]

“Time is the guest of the north.”

Matthew Broderick leads a talented cast in this  almost forgotten movie about a journalist suffering from memory loss who travels to his hometown in order to reconnect with his sick uncle (Alan Alda) and his old high school flame (Virginia Madsen). Together they travel back in town to sell a rare baseball card. If you’re a fan of small independant films, I suggest you check this one out; it’s enjoyable, and the cast couldn’t be more likable (especially Alan Alda who’s never been better). A thin story, but fun nevertheless. Highlight: the scenes at the memorabilia market are a hoot!

 Rating: 2.5/4

Green Zone [2010]

 “It is not for you to decide what happens here.”

Matt Damon teams up once again with his “Bourne” director Paul Greengrass in this war thriller set in Iraq. My expectations were high, so eventually I was pretty disappointed. It’s not a bad movie, but it wasn’t as good as I wanted it to be. Damon is in fine form as always, but the movie feels awfully uneven and boring at times. In other words: it’s no “Bourne”. Too bad. Greengrass’s next project will probably eat this one up (I hope).

Fun fact: “The scenes of downtown Baghdad were shot in Morocco.”

 

Rating: 2.5/4

Jonah Hex [2010]

Sloppy wannabe western movie about a bounty hunter (Josh Brolin) who must find and kill the man who murdered his wife and son years ago (why bother with someting more original right?). I’m a fan of Josh Brolin and John Malkovich, but I think they both deserve something better than this. As for Megan Fox, she’s perfectly cast as a prostitute who also happens to be Hex’s lover (she’s a natural I tell you!). This crap joins “The Bounty Hunter”, “The Last Airbender” and “The Back Up Plan” on my list of worst movies of the year.

Fun fact: “In an anecdote on “The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien”, Josh Brolin revealed that he broke and repaired John Malkovich’s thumb while shooting a fight scene.”

Rating: 1.5/4

Across The Universe [2007]

If you’re a fan of The Beatles and/or musicals, chances are you’ve already seen and enjoyed “Across The Universe”. I like The Beatles, but I think this movie is a big lame excuse to introduce 30 of their songs in a long, sometimes uneven story (there are characters named Prudence and Jude in case you’re wondering). The music is good, but you don’t need a movie to figure out how great The Beatles were. So I guess the best way to enjoy “Across The Universe” is to close your eyes and enjoy the music, or better yet, skip it and buy the soundrack instead.

Fun fact: “This film was released in the United States on John Lennon’s birthday (October 9th).”

 Rating: 2.5/4

Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World [2010]

We live in a time where most of the movies we watch are either remakes, sequels or ripoffs. “Scott Pilgrim” is a rare exception, or should I say, a breath of fresh air. I’ve never seen anything like it before, and eventhough it’s based on a comic, it still looks perfect on screen. The story focuses on Scott Pilgrim (played by a very talented Michael Cera), a 22 year old guy who meets the girl of his dreams. But in order to win her heart, he must defeat her seven evil exes. And this is where the fun begins. The whole movie works like a video game, in which Scott must achieve all 7 levels in order to win “the big prize”. It’s one hell of a ride, and the cast couldn’t be better (especially Jason Shwartzman who’s a treat to watch as one of the exes). “Scott Pilgrim” is one of the best movie-going experiences I’ve had this year; it has a lot to offer, and I highly recommend it. But if I had to describe it in 2 words, I would simply say: it rocks!

 

Rating: 3/4

Machete [2010]

“They F****d with the wrong Mexican”

Violence is key in most of Robert Rodriguez’s movies. And it’s probably the reason why they’re so popular (recall “Desperado”, “Planet Terror”…). “Machete” is no exception; it’s a straighfoward action flick, and it’s all about revenge. Dany Trejo is well cast as the title role, and he’s a very angry man: the organization who hired him for a job betrayed him, so he decides to launch a brutal revenge plan against them. Yes it’s corny as hell, and it’s nothing we haven’t seen before, but the action scenes are brilliantly crafted, so it’s not a total loss. Rodriguez’s fans will definitely enjoy this one (though it’s not as good as “Planet Terror”). Major complaint: Robert DeNiro is totally miscast as a corrupt senator (I just couldn’t buy it).

Rating: 2.5/4

Alien Trespass [2009]

Entertaining movie about a an alien spaceraft that crashes in a small American town and unleashes a “monster” named ghota into the community.  If you’re familiar with such movies as “It Came From Outer Space”, “The Day The Earth Stood Still” and “War OF The Worlds”,  then you’ll know exactly what to expect here. Those movies were very popular in the 50’s, and “Alien Trespass” pays tribute to those classic sci-fi films (and succeeds in doing so). Silly, but fun! Oh and I’m a huge fan of that poster!

Fun fact: “Alien Trespass’s saturated color was inspired by the original The War of the Worlds ((1953) – one of Goodwin’s favorite sci-fi films.”

Rating: 2.5/4 

The American [2010]

The first thing you should know about “The American” is that it’s  not an action movie. The trailer made it look like one; it’s anything but. In fact, the story is slow paced, there isn’t much dialogue in it, and we barely see some action. Im pleased to say that I really enjoyed it. George Clooney is perfectly cast as an assassin who is sent to Italy for one last assignment. He wants out, and this last mission might be his ticket out. Clooney has been terrific these last few years; he’s an ideal hero in my opinion, and it’s hard not to root for him. “The American” is no exception; it’s a clever character study, well directed and beautifully shot in Italy. It’s definitely not for every taste (if you’re looking for an action movie you might want to watch “Machete” instead), but for patient viewers, it’s a rich and rewarding experience.

Rating: 3/4

Little Ashes [2009]

 “And I’ve been insulting myself by letting your shruddy practices, your pathetic, outdated theories and questionable characters shit on my genius”.

In 1922, a young Salvador Dali (played by Robert Pattinson) arrives at the university in Madrid and develops a friendship with poet Frederico Garcia Lorca (Javier Beltran) and film director Luis Bunel (Mathew McNulty). As time goes by, the friendship between Dali and Garcia develops into a love affair. Handsome production suffers from a weak dialogue and unecessary sex scenes, though Pattinson gives it his best (and it shows). The gay love scenes between the two leads might leave some Twilight fans in shock! Based on a true story; but so what?

Rating: 2/4

I Love You, Beth Cooper [2009]

“Thanks. You hit me with your car. That was pretty cool.”

Geeky valedectorian (28 year old Paul Rust) reveals his love for the most popular girl in school (Hayden Panettiere) during his graduation speech, with disastrous consequences. For a minute there I thought this movie had potential. I was wrong; this lame teen comedy actually gives false hope to nerdy school boys. Shame on you Hollywood!  And doesn’t it strike you as odd that a 28 year old guy is playing a teenager?

 

Rating: 2/4

Woody Allen Filmography [Part 1]

Because i’m a huge fan of Woody Allen, I decided to list all of his movies with my own ratings. I hope this helps you decide which movies you must watch, and the ones you can avoid. Enjoy!

1-What’s Up Tiger Lilly? (1966): 2.5/4

2-Casino Royale (1967): 2.5/4

3-Take The Money And Run (1969): 3/4

4-Bananas (1971): 3.5/4

5-Play It Again Sam (1972): 3.5/4

6-Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Sex But Were Afraid To Ask (1972): 3/4

7-Sleeper (1973): 3/4

8-Love And Death (1975) :3/4