lpt1021 Reviews

Haven (2010–2015)

X-Files The New Generation

[9/10 · 5 June 2011]

When the X-files was over, I always wondered if there was ever going to be another show that I liked as much as TXF. Or a show that had all the elements that could be very appealing to me. Eight years later, Haven aired.

What makes me watch this show? The suspense, based on Stephen King's book "The Colorado Kid" plus all the references to his books. Also, the supernatural stories that are hard to find these days.

The show started off pretty slow, where you get to know the characters and several stories that might have holes but give it a try. Because it gets better and ends in a scene that makes you want to watch more.

But the best thing is the wonderful chemistry among the characters, but specially between Emily Rose and Lucas Bryant, whose characters have grown closer and definitely need each other.

I'm happy SyFy gave this show a second season because I'm sure it could last more than this.

Mental (2009)

Stop The House Comparisons - This Show Is Actually Good

[9/10 · 16 June 2009]

There has been so much publicity for this show in Latin America that I just had to watch. You know, give it a chance. Fortunately, I didn't waste my time.

The first episode was very good and the show has gotten better. Though it needs a little polishing in the writing area, the cases are very interesting and even when they can be weird can in fact be true, and the subplot about Jack Gallagher's sister and Carl's personal agenda make it appealing and fun to follow.

I've never heard of half of the cast before, but they all have chemistry and that works for me. Chris Vance does a pretty good job playing the rebellious, fun, caring and innovative doctor. His scenes with his sister on the phone are very touching.

So, how is this show like House? Is it because Gallagher is as sarcastic and doesn't give a damn about the patient like House? Is it because Gallagher is interested in two of his co-workers? Or is it because all the physical illnesses? I have three words for you: Two different shows. Period.

I'll keep watching.

Angels & Demons (2009)

Very Good Adaptation

[9/10 · 24 May 2009]

I had my doubts about seeing this film because of several bad reviews I had read. But I have to say that after seeing it, I dare say that it was a good adaptation from the book.

I read the book twice, last time, was a few weeks ago. And I found several of the plots a little bit corny and boring. However, the main plot and the characters were very good as well as all the twists.

The film starts a little bit slow, but it doesn't matter because they explain very well the conclave and what has happened in the Vatican.

I am very happy and pleased that they left the reporters out of the movie, since I thought they got a little bit unrealistic at some point.

I liked the portrayal of Vittoria Vetra, very much in character in the movie, more serious and more professional and she was even dressed in the proper clothes. I even found Ayelet Zurer to have more chemistry with Tom Hanks than Audrey Tatou in The Da Vinci Code a few years ago.

The only thing I didn't agree was that they didn't address the true relationship from the Pope and the camerlengo. It would've been a great dramatic ending.

Eleventh Hour (2008–2009)

One of the Best New Shows

[9/10 · 26 March 2009]

I've been watching this show from the very first episode. I have to admit I wasn't very convinced but I gave it a chance and watched the second episode and it got better. Rufus Sewell does a great job playing the absent minded professor, that needs to be taken care of in order to keep him out of danger. Marley Shelton, on the other hand, started out a little bit off (as well as her character) but has improved a lot in recent episodes and now I just can't imagine another actress playing Rachel Young. The chemistry between the main characters is excellent and is growing with every episode. Not romantic relationship is implied (nor I want to see one), but those conversations between Hood and Rachel where they talk about their lives are very interesting and they come out natural.

I hope CBS gives this show a second season. The show is different from those procedural shows. Science may be boring but this show gives you the other side of it. Sure sometimes the science is inaccurate but, what isn't on TV? There is absolutely no comparison to Fringe since the characters have an interesting dynamic and are both very strong.

If you haven't watched this show, give it a chance. You might get hooked.

The Wrestler (2008)

Wonderful film with a sad story

[9/10 · 25 January 2009]

I never expected this film to be what it is. It exceeded my expectations. Mickey Rourke gives a powerful and admirable performance as this man who, after being a big star, is now defeated and is trying to survive. I felt sorry for this character. Sorry for a man who doesn't know his way in life, who doesn't know what he wants but who seems to be a man with a soul and a desire to share his feelings with someone who really cares about him. The supporting cast was brilliant. Marisa Tomei's performance is subtle but strong, whose character is in pretty much the same conditions as the lead's. Evan Rachel Wood is excellent as the estranged daughter, who, to my opinion, was very hard on her father and didn't quite understand him. She just gave up on him. The last scene with Marisa Tomei is wonderful. Those words were very true. Another thing that I liked, was the nice touch of Rourke's character walking through the hallways and downstairs with the cheer of an audience in the background.

Marley & Me (2008)

I love my dog more now

[8/10 · 21 January 2009]

You know, minutes before going to the theater to see this movie I was getting dressed and my beagle was jumping all over me, biting me and I kept pushing her away. So I go to this movie and I just couldn't help it. I cried my eyes out. How true it is, that a dog doesn't care who you are, if you're rich or poor, if you're tall or short. He's always there for you. No matter what. And no matter how big the mess is, you'll still love him. It was great to see Owen Wilson playing a dramatic role. He did great in Behind Enemy Lines and he should play more roles like this. Jennifer Aniston was great too, she really delivered. Good film, funny and entertaining, excellent for the family. Don't forget to take your dog.

I Do (But I Don't) (2004 TV Movie)

Pleasantly surprised

[8/10 · 4 January 2009]

This movie is very romantic. Not only because of the whole wedding planner thing, but because of the way the two main characters meet, like it was fate that brought them together and after dealing with their problems and confusion, they're very mature to continue the relationship that was meant to be. Denise Richards is great playing Lauren, the solving-problem, almost obsessive-compulsive young wedding planner, who not only deals with a terrible boss, but also has to deal with a mother and her pressure of getting back together with a man who she doesn't want to be with anymore. But the next best thing is Dean Cain, who plays the charming Nick Corina and who is too good to be true. He's the older brother, the life-saving fireman, the guy who can dance and knows your job better than you and who knows exactly how to catch a woman's attention without looking like a creep. If you're single and you've forgotten for a moment that love doesn't exist, that maybe it wasn't made for you, this gives you hope. The rest of the cast is very good and even the dog brings a smile to your face. If you get the chance to watch this film, don't miss it.

Revolutionary Road (2008)

Two of the best actors of their generation

[9/10 · 29 December 2008]

What an amazing film. First, I have to day that Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet are probably the best actors of their generation. Their performances are deep, emotional and outstanding as they're able to portray this troubled couple and make you feel sorry for them. The way the different emotions cross their faces in a matter of seconds is truly award-winning. What takes you to that level of anger and boredom? What makes you think that moving from the place that is making your life miserable is going to change it? I don't know, but this is what Frank and April thought. They thought that by leaving to another country their problems and worries would fade away, but the truth is, they would just follow them. They never dare face the truth. As much as dysfunctional they were, there were other ways, easy and harmless, to deal with this situation. What started out well turned into a fantasy and a routine that drove each other crazy. And it seemed that April had an idea to make things right again, and it even touched Frank's heart, but their stubbornness and the great idea of leaving only made things worse. The sad thing about it is that someone whose mind what as troubled as their marriage was, was more intelligent to see the real thing. Once they were confronted, things got out of control. I don't know what drives a marriage to end up hurting each other the way they did. How they never thought of any word before saying it. I think that April married Frank as an escape of her failed career. Too bad it was too late for forgiveness. I haven't read the book, but the movie was fantastic. The score might be a little repetitive but it fits the story perfectly and you just can't forget the great supporting cast.

Into the Wild (2007)

Very touching and sad story

[8/10 · 27 December 2008]

What a wonderful film. And what a sad story. I understand Christopher's eagerness to experience a different kind of lifestyle and somehow try to get away of all the problems he had back at home. But that would've been good if it had been for a while, in order to find himself. What I found amazing is all the different people he met along his journey and how he touched and left a part of him in each one of them. However, the only thing that bothers me is that he was a little selfish, because, as much as he wanted to reach his destination and make his dream come true, all the people that were left behind suffered from his absence and thinking what was it like for him being out there, with nothing but will, courage and a dream. It's sad how a situation like this makes a person react. Christopher's parents knew they had done something wrong and it was to late to make it right. Emile Hirsch's performance is extraordinary. The rest of the cast is very good. I was very surprised to see a grown-up Kristen Stewart, performing a song with a very nice voice. Sean Penn did it again, now from the director's chair. The landscapes are breathtaking, shown with a very pleasant soundtrack.