manny-97 Reviews

Inkheart (2008)

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

[6/10 · 21 January 2009]

Once upon a time, many moons ago, author Cornelia Funke wrote her beloved best-selling book Inkheart with actor Brendan Fraser in mind. Funke pictured the character Mo with Fraser's face and voice.

Almost six years later, the film version of the book arrives in theaters bearing Fraser's marquee name. While Funke was definitely right in being inspired by the actor, the book deserved a far better adaptation worthy of its rich material.

"Inkheart" is a fantasy adventure that tells the story of a father and his daughter and their quests through worlds both real and imagined. Fraser stars as Mortimer "Mo" Folchart and his 12-year old daughter, Meggie, is played by newcomer Eliza Hope Bennett.

Mo and Meggie not only share a passion for books, they also share an extraordinary gift for bringing literary characters to life when they read aloud. They're known as "Silvertongues." One night, while Meggie was still a much smaller girl, Mo accidentally banished his wife, Resa (Sienna Guillory), while reading a fantasy book conveniently called Inkheart. He also mistakenly summoned some of the novel's characters such as the homesick fire juggler Dustfinger (Paul Bettany), the evil Capricorn (Andy Serkis), and his knife-wielding confederate, Basta (Jamie Foreman).

Bettany, who stole the show from Tom Hanks in "The DaVinci Code" by playing a deranged monk is quite memorable in "Inkheart." His fire juggling character is presented like a rock star down to his funky outfit. Viewers will be able to identify with Dustfinger's motivation – his yearning to go home.

Serkis, on the other hand, who was so great as the man behind Gollum in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, failed to create terror and suspense as the film's villain. A movie about the eternal battle between good and evil must have a strong, well-written villain to succeed.

And don't even get me started on Helen Mirren who plays Meggie's aunt Elinor Loredan. The fantastic actress who brought me to my knees with "The Queen" followed up her triumphant success with lukewarm films such as "National Treasure: Book of Secrets" and now, "Inkheart." But the film is not without commendable merits. First, I strongly admire "Inkheart's" message. Like the book, the movie's theme is the magic of reading. I also like Fraser's loving chemistry with Bennett.

I still believe Fraser is a good actor (watch "Gods and Monsters" if you doubt me) in search of a good movie. But his soothing yet commanding voice is perfect for the role of a man who brings fictional characters to life just by reading aloud.

Inkheart, the book, is the first of three novels but scriptwriter David Lindsay-Abaire revealed some plot points that were not introduced until the second one. But the fans of the series will enjoy seeing their favorite characters come alive on the big screen.

Directed by Iain Softley ("The Wings of the Dove," "The Skeleton Key"), "Inkheart" is missing one important ingredient – magic. But there are some clever concoctions especially when Toto from "The Wizard of Oz" comes alive or when we see the sight of Dorothy's flying house complete with a twister.

But the most important effect the movie had on me? It made me think of which literary character I want to see bring back to life. My heart says Tinkerbell so she can fly me to faraway places. Now that's an exciting adventure.

And for that, "Inkheart" gets 2 ½ not quite magical kisses To see my full one-on-one interviews with the cast, log on to www.mannythemovieguy.com

My Bloody Valentine (2009)

Fun Film, More Blood, More Nudity!!!

[7/10 · 15 January 2009]

From the 1953 classic chiller "House of Wax" to the 1982 slasher "Friday the 13th Part III," Hollywood has relied on 3-D technology to heighten shock and suspense. The primeval nature of the horror genre is synonymous with the stereoscopic visuals.

So when I heard Lionsgate was releasing a 3-D reimagining of the 1981 horror flick "My Bloody Valentine," I was excited. I was, and still am, a fan of the genre, and I specially liked the original film which Quentin Tarantino called "the best slasher movie of all time." The good news about the new flick? Because of the film's 3-D technology, it is bigger in cinematic scope. But dazzling stereographic technology also means more blood and more nudity, with a little less attention focused on coherence.

But I suspect the film's target audience will not mind. Give them blood and ample nudity, and they will come back over and over again.

For those familiar with the original 1981 film, the new "My Bloody Valentine 3-D" has the same narrative structure. Ten years ago, a tragedy changed the town of Harmony forever.

An inexperienced coal miner caused an accident in the tunnels that trapped and killed five men and sent the only survivor, Harry Warden (Richard John Walters) into a permanent coma.

But a year later on Valentine's day, Warden woke up and brutally murdered twenty-two people with a pickaxe. Ouch! According to the town's lore, Warden was killed. Or was he? Ten years later, someone is killing Harmony residents again. This unstoppable killer has the same neurotic penchant for using pickaxe as his weapon of choice and for dressing up like a miner.

Everyone's a suspect. Is the killer Tom Hanniger (Jensen Ackles), the son of the owner of the mine who's been missing for ten years? Or is it Axel Palmer (Kerr Smith), the town sheriff who holds a grudge against Hanniger? Adding insult to injury, Palmer is now married to Hanniger's former girlfriend, Sarah (Jamie King).

Now, a love triangle is formed, and their Valentine's day promises to be very bloody.

Director Patrick Lussier ("Dracula 2000"), working from a script by Todd Farmer ("The Messengers") and Zane Smith, uses horror genre conventions to tell his story – the damsel in distress and the indestructible serial killer.

But I did like that the damsel is now empowered and doesn't have to wait for her knight in shining armor to save her. Our heroine is not just a scream queen anymore.

I was complaining early on about the film's nudity. But the one scene involving gratuitous full-frontal female nudity is actually one of the movie's most terrifying moments.

I also liked the film's whodunit structure, but the journey towards guessing the killer, specially the middle part of the film, lags. In their efforts to hide the killer's identity, Lussier and company sacrificed dramatic structure. The result is a muddled second half that uses obligatory flashback scenes to tell the story.

The acting ensemble is fine given the film's by-the-numbers premise. But I would be lying if I told you I didn't close my eyes in terror a number of times. I hate the term "it is what it is" but the filmmakers made a slasher flick they sought out to do.

"My Bloody Valentine 3-D" is scary, bloody, and oddly sexy. Sex and gore in 3-D! Our movie-going habit hasn't changed one bit.

And for that, "My Bloody Valentine 3-D" gets 2 ½ slasher kisses

Check out my full interviews with the cast on www.mannythemovieguy.com

Milk (I) (2008)

Friend. Lover. Fighter. Hero. "MILK"

[10/10 · 3 December 2008]

I first heard about Harvey Milk from the powerful Academy Award-winning documentary "The Times of Harvey Milk" by director Rob Epstein. That was 1984 and I was a very young film buff. 23 years later, director Gus Van Sant brings Milk's story back to the big screen. I'm still a film buff; just a little older.

Milk, as you may have known, was the first openly gay man to be voted into major public office in America. But his victory was not just a celebratory cause for gay rights. Before his untimely death in 1978, Milk also became a fighter for human rights.

Academy Award winner Sean Penn ("Mystic River") gave one of his most heartfelt performances as the slain politician. The actor, known for his mercurial temper, showed his rarely seen tender side. He will be the one to beat this Oscar season.

Painstakingly researched and written by Dustin Lance Black, "Milk" charts the last eight years of Harvey Milk's life. The film begins in New York City where the aimless Milk meets the love of his life, Scott Smith (James Franco giving a compelling performance).

Looking for more purpose, the couple relocates to San Francisco and opens up a small business called Castro Camera. This is the location where Milk's political grassroots efforts will be borne.

Empowered by the Castro neighborhood, Milk becomes an outspoken agent for change. Equipped with his unwavering passion and support from friends and volunteers, Milk plunges into politics.

Van Sant's style of mixing real footage with recreated scenes is at once powerful and foreboding. The film's tone is set by the subdued opening sequence showing old footage of police raiding a gay bar where the closeted patrons were shamefully paraded around like cattle in front of news media.

The film's narrative is structured from Milk's point of view. Before he was murdered, Milk taped a series of recordings highlighting his fear of assassination. The filmmakers used those recordings to bridge Milk's heroic journey.

Each of the supporting characters is introduced with great dramatic entrances. The first time we see the memorable Emile Hirsch as Cleve Jones, Milk is trying to persuade him to join his crusade. Jones retorts by saying, "I don't date older men." Alison Pill also shines as Anne Kronenberg, Milk's campaign manager who helps him win the City Supervisor election. On January 9, 1978, Milk is sworn into office with his fellow newly elected supervisors. Among them is ex-fireman Dan White (Josh Brolin) who will tragically cross paths with Milk.

"Milk" is both cerebral and emotional. The film succeeds in humanizing Milk by showing his unmitigated fights for gay rights. Most notable is the appearance of Anita Bryant who becomes gays' and lesbians' public enemy No. 1. Being the first film to deal with gay rights issues, what would have happened if Focus Features released "Milk" prior to the November elections? Would the movie have helped the cause against Proposition 8? I spoke with Cleve Jones, who now lives in Palm Springs. The mesmerizing activist who was Milk's protégée conceded, "I wish we would have released the film earlier, it could have persuaded some people against Proposition 8." Whether "Milk" could have changed election results or not, Harvey Milk, if still alive today, would have grabbed his bull horn and fought for the cause. Van Sant created an honorable tribute to Milk -- gay rights activist, friend, lover, fighter, hero, and inspiration.

And for that, "Milk" gets 4 heartfelt kisses.

Australia (2008)

"Australia" is long but engaging!!!

[7/10 · 24 November 2008]

At the heart of "Australia" is the belief that each human being needs a story to tell in order to continue existing. Apparently trying to prove his existence, director Baz Luhrmann ("Moulin Rouge") reteams with Nicole Kidman to tell his most ambitious story yet, in a grand epic about his homeland – Australia.

The country plays a major role in the film. Set during the explosive brink of World War II, Luhrmann used the land's rugged terrain as a vast canvas to tell the romantic story between Lady Sarah Ashley (Nicole Kidman) and Drover (Hugh Jackman).

The movie concentrated on the Northern territory of Australia called Darwin. According to the film's opening scene, "Darwin was a land of crocodiles, cattle barons, and warrior chiefs where adventure and romance was a way of life." Darwin is also a place where part Aboriginal children were taken from their families by force and assimilated into white society. They would later become known as the "stolen generation." "Australia" is their story.

Narrated by Nullah (Brandon Walters), a kid who's part Aboriginal and part Caucasian, "Australia" is divided into three parts. The first part introduces Lady Sarah Ashley into the story and her headstrong journey from London, England to Darwin, Australia in order to confront her husband who she suspects is cheating on her.

Reluctantly guiding Lady Ashley is Drover, the rough and tumble cattleman whose ruggedness is the direct opposite of Sarah's refined nature. The film's first act culminated into an action-packed ride when Lady Ashley and company drive 1,500 head of cattle across Australia's breathtaking yet brutal landscape.

If you suspect that I love the first act of the movie, you are absolutely correct! Cinematographer Mandy Walker excites us with her majestic, sweeping vistas, and Luhrmann and fellow screenwriters Stuart Beattie, Ronald Harwood, and Richard Flanagan create an engaging opener.

But crikey, all hell breaks loose for the movie in the second act. The middle part of "Australia" is full of clichés that each new character succumbs to being pawns just to move the story forward. The mechanics of the narrative are so conventional that viewers will know exactly who's going to die before it's even revealed.

By the time the third act arrives, with the Japanese unleashing their fire on Darwin, you are ready to give up. But thank heavens for Kidman and Jackman, and the precocious presence of Walters – he's the Best Child Actor of the year! There's a very tender moment between Kidman and Walters involving the actress singing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" to the boy. Yes, "Wizard of Oz" becomes the heart of the movie.

I also enjoyed the detailed description of the Aboriginal culture told by the presence of the mysterious tribal magic man known as King George (David Gulpilil). This part of the story energizes the movie.

"Australia" is not a perfect film but there are many elements within the movie that will bring joy to most viewers. Kidman and Jackman have believable chemistry necessary for a romantic film. And Jackman, fresh from being crowned the Sexiest Man Alive by People's Magazine showcases his rugged de rigueur.

At 165 minutes, "Australia" will test your patience. It's long, but believe me when I say, the film is also engaging. You cannot discount Luhrmann for his commendable homage to his beloved Australia. And for that, "Australia" gets 3 Oz kisses

Quantum of Solace (2008)

Great Action Scenes But the Plot?

[7/10 · 11 November 2008]

The world of James Bond has its finger firmly on the pulse of our current political climate. In the 60s, cold war was the overarching theme of the Bond films, while catastrophic threat of a nuclear war painted the Ian Fleming classics of the 70s and 80s.

The 90s Bond flicks gave us subjects as wide and varied as global media tycoons, terrorists, and our favorite secret service agent ditching his code of honor for personal vendetta. In the new film "Quantum of Solace," the topical issue is not as sexy as nuclear warheads. The pedantic subject is, in fact, our environment, but Bond, once again, is out for revenge.

Daniel Craig who received much-deserved accolades for playing Bond in "Casino Royale" is back. The hiring of Craig signified the new direction of the franchise – meaner and grittier. "Quantum of Solace" sticks to the raw, edgy formula of "Casino Royale" but there's one thing missing – a solid plot.

The new film starts just days after "Casino Royale." Bond is still reeling from the death of his beloved Vesper (Eva Green). There's an explosive car chase in the beginning with Mr. White hiding in the trunk of Bond's Aston Martin.

Mr. White, if you remember, is the one responsible for the death of Vesper. This time, he's being interrogated by M (the always vibrant Dame Judi Dench), who must wade through some traitorous M16 agents.

Meanwhile, Bond is on a secret mission that will take him to Austria, Italy, and South America. He's out for revenge that leads M to question -- Can she trust Bond? Trust is the looming theme of the movie. There's a shadowy organization known as Quantum and they're hell-bent on global destruction. At the center is the evil environmentalist, Dominick Green (played by "The Diving Bell and the Butterfly's" Mathieu Amalric), who's conspiring to take control of the world's most precious natural resources.

There's also a new Bond girl in town named Camille (Olga Kurylenko). Like Bond, she is also out for revenge. Her vengeance is aimed toward Bolivian General Medrano (Joaquin Cosio) who put her and her family under villainous torture.

The stage is set and the narrative is moving forward but do you really care? Directed by Marc Forster (the splendid director of "Monster's Ball" and "Finding Neverland"), the action scenes in "Quantum of Solace" overtakes its plot.

I enjoyed the staging of all the action sequences, and I specifically remember two great scenes. One, where a footrace started on rooftops and ended with our hero and the baddie hanging upside down still shooting at each other. The other is an elaborate staging of events inside an opera theater where most of the patrons are Quantum members.

The writing team of "Casino Royale" is back headed by "Crash's" Paul Haggis. The script's pacing is sharp, fast, and frenetic, but if the screen writing team learned one thing from the previous movie, slowing down and letting the narrative breathe will do wonders to the screenplay.

Craig still owns the role of Ian Fleming's secret service agent. His Bond is like a silent killer, murdering his victims with his stoic gaze. Bond's inner suffering is evident with just one, steely look.

The bottom-line? If you're looking for a smart plot, "Quantum of Solace" fails to deliver. But the clever staging of action scenes is worth your price of admission. The production design is also splendid! It hearkens back to the glory days of the classic Bond movies. Back when he was still drinking martini, shaken not stirred. And for that, "Quantum of Solace" gets 3 007 kisses

Role Models (2008)

One of the BEST Comedies of Year

[9/10 · 5 November 2008]

Actors Paul Rudd and Seann William Scott are some of the key players responsible for the renewed popularity of the R-rated comedy genre. Rudd, with his partnership with the reigning king of R-rated comedy, Judd Apatow, and Scott, with his unforgettable role as Stifler in the "American Pie" films.

With the new flick "Role Models," Rudd and Scott teamed up to make a movie that's raunchy and potty-mouthed, but guess what? The film is one of the best, if not "the" best comedy of the year.

It's quite surprising that "Role Models" began its inception as a dramatic script until Rudd came along. The actor helped reinvigorate the screenplay (the movie is his first as a scriptwriter) and the result is a laugh-out-loud film with a genuine emotional core at its heart.

Rudd and Scott star as Danny and Wheeler, two salesmen who trash a company truck on an energy drink-fueled bender. Upon their arrest, the court gives them a choice: do hard time or spend 150 service hours with a mentorship program called Sturdy Wings.

Helping the duo is Danny's soon-to-be-ex-girlfriend, Beth (the always dependable Elizabeth Banks), a lawyer who's fed up with her boyfriend's antics. She advises Danny and Wheeler to spend time at the mentorship program instead of jail.

At Sturdy Wings, our bumbling heroes are surrounded by annoying do-gooders. Leading the pack is the scene-stealing Jane Lynch as Gayle Sweeney, the head of the program who's a recovering cocaine-addict herself.

Danny is assigned to take care of Augie ("Superbad's" McLovin, Christopher Mintz-Plasse), a bashful 16-year old obsessed with medieval role play. Meanwhile, Wheeler must learn to tame Ronnie (newcomer Bobb'e J. Thompson), a foul-mouthed, tough-as-nails fifth grader.

Directed by David Wain ("The Ten," "Wet Hot American Summer"), "Role Models" worked because of the great chemistry of the cast. Rudd and Scott wisely let the younger actors shine.

Mintz-Plasse, who was relegated to a one-hit wonder status with his McLovin role, proves that he's an excellent comedic actor with great timing. Same can be said with Thompson. You will be aghast to hear foul words coming out of his mouth, but you will be equally charmed by the young actor.

The production is also blessed by a great team. The medieval role play war scene becomes a gripping fight-to-the-finish battle royale because of stunt coordinator, Jeff Imada, who coordinated the fight sequences for the "Bourne" films.

Everyone walking out of the theaters after watching "Role Models" had contented smiles on their faces. You will laugh at the funny moments and feel emotional at the tender scenes. Come to think of it, this bro-mantic movie is really the best comedy of the year. And for that, "Role Models" gets 3 ½ model behavior kisses

Zack and Miri Make a Porno (2008)

Okay Plot, But Super Funny Actors!

[8/10 · 29 October 2008]

There's something inherently funny about watching porn. When we're with a group of people, we giggle nervously at the sight of two folks having consensual sex. So leave it to writer/director Kevin Smith for literally creating a comedy out of making pornography.

According to Smith, he came up with the idea for "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" from his first directorial gig, "Clerks." In the 1994 comedy hit, Smith introduced us to a bunch of inane folks who want to make a movie. In "Zack and Miri," Smith takes us one step further and introduces us to desperate people who turn to pornography to survive in this tough economy.

Seth Rogen ("Knocked Up," "Pineapple Express") stars as Zack, a lifelong friend and roommate of Miri (Elizabeth Banks). Both are facing hard times and a mountain of debt. When the electricity and plumbing get cut off, they hatch an idea to make a homegrown porno movie for some quick cash.

Rogen and Banks are so adorable together that the dirty deed of making porn seems like a fun, clean Tupperware party. It also helps that the stars are surrounded by funny character actors.

Craig Robinson stars as Zack's co-worker, Delaney, who becomes the casting manager of their adult film. Some of the performers picked are Lester (played by longtime Smith collaborator Jason Mewes), Stacey (real-life porn actress Katie Morgan), Barry (Ricky Mabe), and Bubbles (Traci Lords).

But the scene-stealer of the movie is Justin Long as Brandon, a gay porn actor attending Zack's and Miri's 10th year high school reunion with his boyfriend Bobby Long gamely played by Brandon Routh ("Superman Returns"). Long appears in just two scenes but his improvisational acting takes the cake.

"Zack and Miri Make a Porno" is blessed with all these dynamic actors working cohesively to create a funny movie. The plot is okay, but once it's laid out, it's up to the actors to truly make it work.

Smith wrote this movie with Rogen in mind. When the director saw "The 40-Year Old Virgin," he immediately called the actor for the part. In turn, Rogen suggested Banks for the film and Smith was smitten.

Banks effectively captures the "lovable loser" role of Miri. It's simply astonishing for an actress to go from playing Laura Bush in "W" to making porn in "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" and shine in both movies.

Like most Smith films, there are fanboy references to "Star Wars." The director, who's a comic book geek at heart, always finds new ways to mention the George Lucas sci-fi classic. In "Zack and Miri Make a Porno," our main characters decide to call their adult film "Star Whores." Oh yes, there are many eyebrow-raising scenes in the movie. The MPAA initially gave the film an NC-17 rating until Smith fought it down to an R. There are sex scenes, obviously, and full frontal nudity but they are not gratuitous. There's even one scene involving bodily functions. Wait until you see what "Dutch rudder" is all about.

"Zack and Miri Make a Porno" is raunchy and dirty but it has a great, big heart in the middle. The only problem is, you can predict where and when that heart of the movie is about to happen. Still, I shed a tear or two when that emotional scene took place.

But Smith, once again, showed his stamp of authorship and made a truly original movie. When Hollywood makes something authentic, I'm very supportive. Even if the film is about making porno. And for that, "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" gets 3 XXX kisses

High School Musical 3: Senior Year (2008)

Cloying and Sugary, But Ultimately Harmless

[5/10 · 22 October 2008]

Every generation has its own high school themed film. The 70s has "American Graffiti," the 80s is marked by the John Hughes' movies ("The Breakfast Club," "Pretty in Pink"), the 90s has "American Pie," and now, this generation has the "High School Musical" flicks. The franchise is decidedly cloying, but it's ultimately harmless.

Imagine all the high school stereotypes you know and put them together in one big musical, and voilà, you get "High School Musical." There's the jock, the beauty queen, the smart and pretty girl-next-door, the nerd, the rebel, all singing and dancing for the tween (the preadolescence crowd) generation.

The plot is centered wisely around Zac Efron's character, Troy Bolton, one of the Wildcats basketball players. Efron's film career looks promising compared to the other cast members. The actor is set to star in three upcoming movies and one of them is a remake of "Footloose." In "High School Musical 3: Senior Year," Efron is even given the chance to channel Kevin Bacon in the power ballad "Scream" where he starts gyrating from the basketball court to the stage reminiscent of "Footloose." Troy is torn between accepting a basketball scholarship at Albuquerque University and pursuing his musical calling with the Juilliard School. Meanwhile, his girlfriend Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens) already made up her mind to follow her scholastic dreams by going to Stanford University.

But in the world of "High School Musical," the future can be put on hold one last time so our characters can stage a spring musical to address their experiences, hopes, and fears. Most of the musical numbers are soulless except for a few inspired performances.

One of my favorites is "The Boys Are Back" performed by Troy and his BFF Chad Danforth (Corbin Bleu). It's a fantasy rock duet that takes place in a junkyard at night. The boys are given one last time to be boys before they enter adulthood. Such drama told with hip-hop moves.

Another great number is the graduation song "High School Musical." It's upbeat and fun and captures the essence of the franchise. But come to think of it, was I just happy the film is about to end? The production team behind the previous TV movies is back led by director Kenny Ortega (he's set to direct Efron in "Footloose"). The filmmakers did their best to satisfy the non-"High School Musical" fans to no avail. In retrospect, the musical numbers I liked were the ones not told on stage.

Efron did his best to act tough as a basketball superstar and to sing his heart out as a musical lead. Vanessa has a pedantic and thankless role as the goody-goody smarty Gabriella, but my favorite is the self-centered Sharpay Evans (Ashley Tisdale). Sharpay is the "villain" of the movie, but this is a G-rated Disney fantasy, so her character can only be mean to a point.

The clean G-rating is the problem of the movie. There are no complex characters facing complex issues. All I could think about was, gee, I wished I went to this high school where all your problems can be solved with a 3-minute song and dance number.

But the G-rating can also be a blessing. I was watching this with a school teacher and he said this is a good movie for kids to identify with. The target demographic of this movie is the young Disney viewer. If they can sing and dance instead of being violent, then "High School Musical 3: Senior Year" has succeeded. And for that, "High School Musical 3: Senior Year" gets 2 ½ not quite Broadway kisses.

W. (I) (2008)

Well-Directed and Acted, But What's the Point?

[5/10 · 15 October 2008]

Oliver Stone is known as a controversial director. From his revisionist take on "JFK" to his glorification of mass murderers in "Natural Born Killers," Stone showcased his burning passion that many deemed unacceptable. Stone might have listened to his detractors because his new film "W," while well-directed, is saddled without a point.

If you've been living under a rock for the past few months, you might have missed the hype surrounding "W" even before it was made! The film is supposed to be an incendiary look at the presidency of George Walker Bush to be released a few weeks before the election to sway voters. But "W" is not going to change your opinion of the man or his political party, whether you're leaning towards the left or the right.

Written by Stanley Weiser, Stone's "Wall Street" collaborator, "W" weaves in and out of the past and the present and even a hint of the future to humanize Bush. Josh Brolin memorably plays the president from when he was a callous young man to a misguided leader of the most powerful nation in the world.

Stone tries to paint Bush as living under the almighty shadow of his father, George Herbert Walker (a successful portrayal by James Cromwell). Bush has daddy issues and must continually fight with Jeb for their father's attention. When Bush decides to run as Governor of Texas, his parents advise him against it because the family must focus on Jeb's candidacy in Florida.

Bush's early years are told with master craft precision that I wished Stone concentrated on that chapter. Born with a silver spoon, Bush is portrayed as a womanizing alcoholic with a penchant for wearing cowboy hats and boots. Only when he denounces the evils of alcoholism and finds God, does the man who would be the 43rd President finds his redemption.

With his wife Laura (Elizabeth Banks) in his side, Bush marches forward to his chosen path. Helping his dad with his own presidential candidacy in 1988 exposes Bush to big-time politics. That's when he meets Karl Rove (the excellent Toby Jones), long regarded as the brain behind Bush. "I'm just a fairy spreading fairy dust all over you," Rove says about his plans to push Bush into the political spotlight.

"W" is intriguing up to that point. When the narrative jumps into the Iraq war phase of Bush's presidency, the movie loses steam. The meetings in the White House, with all the key players around, look and feel like a bad "Saturday Night Live" improvisation.

Those scenes are acted well but Bush and his aides have all become pop culture caricatures, you can't help but wait for a Tina Fey appearance. Among the supporting cast, Richard Dreyfuss as Vice President Dick Cheney and Jeffrey Wright as General Colin Powell shine. But Thandie Newton as Condoleeza Rice fails miserably. Her character is not given enough weight that her mere presence becomes cartoonish and quite honestly, laughable.

I heard that Stone and company painstakingly researched the film and its subject. But regurgitating books cannot give a film its much-needed emotional gravitas. I can't help but compare this movie to "The Queen," a much better biopic that chose to focus on one explosive subject – Princess Di.

Heck even former British Prime Minister Tony Blair (Ioan Gruffud) makes an appearance in "W," but like many of the other supporting characters, his performance is a caricature. This saddens me a lot because I value Stone as a great director, and there are many scenes in the film that are well-written.

I especially enjoyed the baseball allegories and how the director used the game to bookend each of the film's three acts. You will also remember the strong performances by Brolin, Cromwell, and Jones because their characters are given more creative credence.

"W" was conceived in January, went in production in May, and finished shooting in July. The quick turnaround is evident in the quality of the film. The third act feels ridiculously rushed and it's about the most important phase in Bush's presidency – the Iraq War.

Before watching this film, I was hoping that Stone would give his subject a fair and balanced portrayal. Yes, the director was fair and balanced, but his passion was gone. I doubt if Stone will be able to energize his base. And for that, "W" gets 2 1/2 Mission Accomplished kisses

The Express (2008)

Dennis Quaid Made the Film For Me

[7/10 · 8 October 2008]

"The Express" tells the gripping true-to-life tale of Ernie Davis. He's the first African-American who won the Heisman Trophy, college football's highest individual honor. At a glance, you may think "The Express" is just another football film, but what sets this movie apart is its resonant theme of courage and hope amidst racism.

Racism is the key to Davis' discovery of his athletic abilities as a child. Faced with danger from the neighborhood bullies, all white, Davis escapes his tormentors by running as fast as he can. From that point on, the boy who can barely speak because of his stuttering problems is able to express himself on the football field.

Actor Rob Brown plays the grown-up Davis with much aplomb. Brown has such an aura of openness that his performance pulls you in. The actor landed his first acting job in "Finding Forrester" because he thought he could be an extra in the movie so he could pay his cell phone bill. The rawness in his acting he showed in that film sparring with Sean Connery is evident in "The Express." Only this time, Brown is wrangling with Dennis Quaid.

Quaid stars as Ben Schwartzwalder, a long-time coach at Syracuse University. Schwartzwalder discovered another gridiron icon, Jim Brown (played in the movie by Darrin Dewitt Henson), and he is the one who will eventually mold Davis into a football hero.

"The Express" can be seen as a two-character morality play between Davis and Schwartzwalder. The football scenes are great, but much of the action happens between the clashing coach and his esteemed player.

If Davis is a symbol of the civil rights campaign during the 1960s, Schwartzwalder is the metaphor for the evolving conscience of America. In the beginning of the movie, Schwartzwalder appears to have only one goal in mind – winning. But towards the end, with Davis' help, Schwartzwalder learns the true meaning of victory.

Brown and Quaid are enough to justify the price of your movie ticket, but "The Express" is blessed with indelible supporting performances. Heading the pack is Charles S. Dutton as Davis' grandfather. His likability matches Brown's. Another notable performance comes from Omar Benson Miller as Davis' best friend, Jack Buckley. His acting transcends the comic relief nature of the character. However, the lack of strong female characters mars an otherwise perfect acting ensemble.

Based on the book by Robert Gallagher called "The Elmira Express" (the Elmira in the title comes from Davis' hometown, Elmira, NY) with a script written by Charles Leavitt, I liked that the topic of racism did not consume the film. There are some lines that are a bit overhanded, but the actors deliver them with much gusto.

One of my favorite lines from the movie is the one Schwartzwalder used to inspire his team during their historic Cotton Bowl game against the University of Texas in Dallas. Met by intense heckling brought by racism, Quaid, in a powerful dramatic moment, delivers the dialog, "do not let them take history away from you." That line reverberates strong and well to this day.

Directed by Gary Fleder ("Runaway Jury"), you don't have to like football to enjoy the movie. You will stand up and cheer during the intense football scenes, but you will clap even more for Ernie Davis' unprecedented journey. And for that, "The Express" gets 3 Touchdown kisses

Flash of Genius (2008)

"Flash of Genius" Movie Review

[7/10 · 1 October 2008]

The issue of ethics is front and center in "Flash of Genius," a film about one man who sacrifices everything for his principles. Based on real-life events, the movie is a strong morality play grounded by the performance of Greg Kinnear.

Kinnear stars as inventor Robert Kearns, a passionate thinker, a loving husband and father, and a dedicated university professor. Aided by his wife, Phyllis (Lauren Graham from the TV show "Gilmore Girls") and their six kids, Kearns invents the intermittent windshield wiper – a device that would eventually be used by every car in the world.

Helping Kearns in his patent application is family friend Gil Previck (Dermot Mulroney). They develop the revolutionary product and market it to Ford Motor Company. The automotive giant embraces Kearns' invention at first, but unceremoniously takes his creation and rejects the man behind it.

Now, the stage is set for a David vs. Goliath story that will take decades before finding resolution. Kearns, who's been ignored and threatened by Ford, seeks counsel from attorney Gregory Lawson (the scene-stealing Alan Alda). Lawson is able to get some compensation for Kearns, but our fierce inventor does not want money – he wants Ford to apologize for his family's sufferings.

Veteran producer Mark Abraham ("Air Force One," "Thirteen Days") tries his hands at directing for the first time. When I interviewed him and asked about his career change, Abraham said, "I've always wanted to direct this David and Goliath story since I heard about it years ago." Based on the New Yorker article by John Seabrook, "Flash of Genius" is ably directed. The film flows and does not drag on, which I find very surprising because most biopic have tendencies to heighten the melodrama quotient of their real-life subjects.

That doesn't mean that screenwriter Philip Railsback ("The Stars Fell on Henrietta") avoided feel-good clichés. There are some moments, especially the family scenes, where you feel the script is trying mightily hard to tug at your heartstrings.

Kinnear succeeds in injecting humanity to the character. You may not agree with Kearns and his principles, but you will certainly share his triumph when he brings Goliath to his knees.

"I was attracted by the character," Kinnear says about his motivation for playing Kearns. "He's not heroic like other man against corporation movies; he struck me as a very human guy." That human guy and his well-told fight against the big machine are the reasons why I'm recommending this movie. You may wince at the idea of a film about the inventor of the intermittent windshield wiper, but you will stand up and cheer when his principles are finally honored. And for that, "Flash of Genius" gets 3 Genius Kisses

Eagle Eye (2008)

You've Been Activated

[24 September 2008]

The "technology is everywhere" idea for "Eagle Eye" was hatched several years ago from the brilliant mind of executive producer Steven Spielberg. He wanted to do for electronic devices what he successfully did for sharks in "Jaws." People feared going to the water after watching Spielberg's 1975 masterpiece but I doubt they will stop using technology because of "Eagle Eye."

Yet, the film succeeds in instilling paranoia. It may not have reached the cinematic tension of "Jaws," but you will still feel suspicious about your cell phones, laptops, and GPS. Is Big Brother watching? In "Eagle Eye," it's Big Sister who's doing all the controlling. Her soothing but commanding voice (Julianne Moore in an uncredited role) is manipulating people into doing exactly what she wants them to do. Her motivation may be patriotic, but the means by which she carries out her duties can be considered terroristic.

Acting as Big Sister's unwilling puppets are Shia LaBeouf and Michelle Monaghan. Their characters unite to figure out who's the person behind Big Sister's voice.

In his first adult leading man role, LaBeouf stars as Jerry Shaw, a copy clerk in Chicago who's detached from his family. Compared to his successful twin brother, an Air Force public relations officer, Jerry is an underachieving loser with no ambition or dreams.

When his brother gets killed in a car crash, Jerry's life takes a drastic turn for the worse. Suddenly, huge amounts of bomb-making materials show up at his apartment, which prompt the FBI, headed by Agent Thomas Morgan (the scene-stealing Billy Bob Thornton), to label Jerry a terrorist.

Meanwhile, Monaghan's Rachel is busy being a single mom. Her little boy is off to Washington, D.C. to play for the President in his school band. That night, Rachel is enjoying an all-girls night out when she receives "the" call. Her child's life is in danger, if she doesn't follow directions precisely.

"Rachel Holloman you have been activated," says the soothing voice on the other end of the line. "Your compliance is vital. We will derail your son's train unless you do what you're told!" Cue action-packed music.

Directed by D.J. Caruso, LaBeouf's partner-in-crime in "Disturbia," "Eagle Eye" is a non-stop action-thriller that's frenetic, chaotic, and at times, overwhelming. Get ready to be assaulted by quick edits and jerky camera movements – a barrage of sights and loud sounds which sometimes culminates into mind-blowing special effects.

Amidst all the noise, the quiet performance by "The Shield's" Michael Chiklis as Defense Secretary Callister stands out as the heart of the movie. You can see that a world of responsibilities rests upon his shoulders.

I also enjoyed the chemistry between LaBeouf and Monaghan. The romantic tension is evident albeit inferred. If this is an 80s movie, the actors would have made love, with guns a' blazing and a Journey soundtrack playing in the background.

The biggest element I liked about "Eagle Eye" is its strong "what if" factor. The hi-tech central plot of the film doesn't feel like science fiction. Spielberg's imagination is truly ahead of his time. He conjured up this scenario long before cell phones, laptops, and GPS rule the world. So get off of your computer and watch "Eagle Eye." And for that, "Eagle Eye" gets 3 "Big Sister's Watching" kisses.

Hamlet 2 (2008)

This Movie Brightened My Day

[8/10 · 9 August 2008]

I had to drive all the way from Palm Springs to Los Angeles to watch "Hamlet 2." Traffic drama notwithstanding, the 2-hour trek is all worth it! I laughed out loud watching this film, which is really a parody of a tragedy. Here are the pluses: Steve Coogan -- he anchors this film from start to finish. He embodies his optimistic loser role. And those great, broad physical comedy? Wow!

Catherine Keener -- only she can lift a one-dimensional role into a living, breathing, likable bitch :)

Elizabeth Shue -- I heard that she injected a lot of self-deprecating scenes into her role, very UN-Hollywood of her!

Musical Scenes -- it's ironic that the play, supposed to be the worst play ever, is the focal point and the bright, shining light of the film.

The "high school" cast -- they each embody stereotypes, and then collectively break through the norms of their roles.

And you know? This is not your "white teacher goes to the ghetto to teach the students life-affirming lessons" film. I applaud the movie for recognizing that, and going one step further.

Irreverent wit -- if you like the UN-PC qualities of South Park, you will love this film!

The only minuses I can think of are not enough character development, specially among the kids in school, and Keneer's twist, while predictable, still feels off-center and trite.

But trust me, you'll laugh and have a great time! I went to see "Hamlet 2" with a friend of mine who's not into the broad comedy genre and fell in love with the movie!

Honestly? The only folks who will hate this film are the ones who live in Tucson, Arizona :)