The Informant was released in Canada on September 11, 2009 at the Toronto International Film Festival. The star power is in the Director, Steven Soderbergh, and the lead role performed by Matt Damon.
The film is a cross between a white-collar crime drama and slapstick humor. The reason is that the would be whistleblower is as smart as a tractor. Matt Damon is the in-house spy for the FBI, trying to make a case for price fixing. But the FBI had not accounted for the fact that their spy was as crazy as a bag of hammers, and no information vault to boot. But what really spikes the humor in The Informant is Damon's narration.
This film will get some glances from the Academy, but it's not a shoe in. There are several categories worth consideration. The screenplay is great, based on having turned what should have been a drama into what can only be described as a situation comedy, and especially based on the content of the narration. Damon's acting was great in this, and we have come to expect that from him. I'm not sure it was good enough to be in this year's top five. I also felt the directing was sharp, but a nomination in this category is pretty much dependent on being nominated for Best Picture, and I don't think that will happen.
The Informant was quite good. I laughed out loud a dozen times. The irony factor is strong, and Damon is worth watching. Not a film you'll regret.
Showing posts with label Oscars. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Oscars. Show all posts
Thursday, December 3, 2009
A Serious Man
A Serious Man was released in Canada on September 12, 2009 at the Toronto International Film Festival. Written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, it stars exactly no one... and that is the beauty of this film.
The storyline is of a common Joe... or in this case, Larry... who is a bit of a modern-day Job. Problems at work, marriage falling apart, and a diagnosis that hangs over the viewer's head for the entire movie. It is classic Coen satire, a genre all its own these days. In this case, it was sometimes hard to keep up with what was being satired, if you will. Let's see... There were plenty of pokes at the sterotyped provincial Jewish culture. There was a jab or two at religion. Watching racism with a satirical twist was a riot. The humdrum of married and family life were parodied non-stop. I should not leave out the satirical setting. It was deliberately plunked in a more traditional and delayed gratification era to give us another smack up the back of the head about what we have become. I'm pretty sure I've missed a few, since I saw it five weeks ago.
As for Oscars, any time these guys tap out a story, it's good for a screenplay nod. The gross snub of Burn After Reading last year may actually increase their chances of parity this time around. The actors were chosen at the local bagel shop, it appears. They performed well, but there was nothing terribly remarkable. That was precisely the point... scream ordinary from the rooftops.
A Serious Man was not their best work, and the average goy may not be slapping her knee with the localized humor. But the Coen brothers are always entertaining... and they are always a risk to take home some hardware in February. For that reason, it's definitely worth the watch.
The storyline is of a common Joe... or in this case, Larry... who is a bit of a modern-day Job. Problems at work, marriage falling apart, and a diagnosis that hangs over the viewer's head for the entire movie. It is classic Coen satire, a genre all its own these days. In this case, it was sometimes hard to keep up with what was being satired, if you will. Let's see... There were plenty of pokes at the sterotyped provincial Jewish culture. There was a jab or two at religion. Watching racism with a satirical twist was a riot. The humdrum of married and family life were parodied non-stop. I should not leave out the satirical setting. It was deliberately plunked in a more traditional and delayed gratification era to give us another smack up the back of the head about what we have become. I'm pretty sure I've missed a few, since I saw it five weeks ago.
As for Oscars, any time these guys tap out a story, it's good for a screenplay nod. The gross snub of Burn After Reading last year may actually increase their chances of parity this time around. The actors were chosen at the local bagel shop, it appears. They performed well, but there was nothing terribly remarkable. That was precisely the point... scream ordinary from the rooftops.
A Serious Man was not their best work, and the average goy may not be slapping her knee with the localized humor. But the Coen brothers are always entertaining... and they are always a risk to take home some hardware in February. For that reason, it's definitely worth the watch.
Amelia
Amelia was released in Canada on October 23, 2009. Directed by Mira Nair, the film features Hilary Swank as Amelia, Richard Gere as Mr. Amelia Earhart, and Ewan McGregor as her extracurricular lover.
The plot is no surprise. This is the story of Amelia Earhart, America's famous Aviatrix, the first woman to make a trans-Atlantic flight, and the woman who disappeared on an attempt to make a flight around the world. Her story is such that one assumes this will be an easy hit. That was not actually the case with this flick. The viewer keeps waiting for a climax, some emotion somewhere, something to raise your eyebrow at... but it never really comes.
This film as pegged to draw lots of Oscar attention, but my sense is that it will likely miss that mark considerably. It's a period piece, set in the early 1900s and the costumes are indeed very well done. This may be the film's best shot at an Oscar. Hilary Swank was decent, but came nowhere close to her Oscar-winning ways in Million Dollar Baby or Boys Don't Cry. Richard Gere is always easy to look at. How is it this man gets more handsome with age? Like Swank, we have seen Gere perform far beyond anything he does in Amelia. McGregor is always competent, but never really blows your mind. There will be no acting awards in this one. This is disappointing, but the reason is likely tied to a poor screenplay.
Amelia was alright. That's the best I can do. You won't kick yourself for going, but your impressed factor will also be pretty small.
The plot is no surprise. This is the story of Amelia Earhart, America's famous Aviatrix, the first woman to make a trans-Atlantic flight, and the woman who disappeared on an attempt to make a flight around the world. Her story is such that one assumes this will be an easy hit. That was not actually the case with this flick. The viewer keeps waiting for a climax, some emotion somewhere, something to raise your eyebrow at... but it never really comes.
This film as pegged to draw lots of Oscar attention, but my sense is that it will likely miss that mark considerably. It's a period piece, set in the early 1900s and the costumes are indeed very well done. This may be the film's best shot at an Oscar. Hilary Swank was decent, but came nowhere close to her Oscar-winning ways in Million Dollar Baby or Boys Don't Cry. Richard Gere is always easy to look at. How is it this man gets more handsome with age? Like Swank, we have seen Gere perform far beyond anything he does in Amelia. McGregor is always competent, but never really blows your mind. There will be no acting awards in this one. This is disappointing, but the reason is likely tied to a poor screenplay.
Amelia was alright. That's the best I can do. You won't kick yourself for going, but your impressed factor will also be pretty small.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Away We Go
Away We Go was released in Canada on June 26, 2009. The director is the accomplished Sam Mendes, and he is the most notable name associated with this flick. If you are a fan of The Office, you will recognize John Krasinski in the lead role. No one else to mention in this baby.
So the scoop is thus. Bert and Verona are having a baby. They have not exactly been the responsible pair who has built the perfect scene for a child to enter. So they start visiting old friends and relatives, looking for the perfect place to have their child. Their encounters along the way are just priceless. I still snicker at the stroller scene. Interspersed with absolute hilarity are some really poignant life insights that bring sweetness to your amused smile.
This is not likely significant Oscar material. Some have criticized the screenplay, but I thought it was just brilliant. If it gets a nod anywhere, it may be in that category. The Directing was sharp, but not contention worthy.
Away We Go was great. No one will be talking about it in 20 years, but it will be 90 enjoyable minutes for you.
So the scoop is thus. Bert and Verona are having a baby. They have not exactly been the responsible pair who has built the perfect scene for a child to enter. So they start visiting old friends and relatives, looking for the perfect place to have their child. Their encounters along the way are just priceless. I still snicker at the stroller scene. Interspersed with absolute hilarity are some really poignant life insights that bring sweetness to your amused smile.
This is not likely significant Oscar material. Some have criticized the screenplay, but I thought it was just brilliant. If it gets a nod anywhere, it may be in that category. The Directing was sharp, but not contention worthy.
Away We Go was great. No one will be talking about it in 20 years, but it will be 90 enjoyable minutes for you.
Inglourius Basterds
Inglourius Basterds was released in Canada on August 21, 2009. The two names of mention in this film are itsDirector, Quentin Tarantino, and the lead role manhandled by Brad Pitt.
The scene of the story is France during the Second World War, where the Nazis are occupying and a group of Americans known as the Basterds, led by Pitt, are unleashed to scalp and kill Nazis. Concurrent with their plot to take down Hitler, a young Jewish woman whose family was brutally murdered by Nazis years before, and who now runs a movie theatre in France, is cooking up her own scheme to bring down Hitler's regime. The narrative is classically Tarantino. Translation. Great story. Lots of blood and gore. Long enough to feed his ego, and too long for everyone else's comfort. That said, it is nicely woven together, funny, and feeds the yearning of anyone who wishes something other than suicide had taken out Hitler. It might also attempt, but ultimately fail, to relieve some of the guilt of the nations who waited a little too long to get him under control.
This is the kind of flick that inevitably gets the attention of the Academy. Despite Tarantino's narcissism that forced this thing onward far too long, it was a good film. Both the film and its director will get a nod this year. Honestly, I've always found Pitt's acting to be unremarkable. He glides by in great roles, but never really nails them. However, this may be his best performance to date. For me, the nomination that is a no brainer is for Christoph Waltz as Best Supporting Actor. His portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa was simply brilliant, and he should be rewarded for his efforts. The thing that may detract from Oscar contention is the early release date. While a relief from the usual summer drivel, it may be dimmer in the minds of the Academy as a result.
Inglourius Basterds was a very entertaining film, and definitely a must see for any Oscar buff.
The scene of the story is France during the Second World War, where the Nazis are occupying and a group of Americans known as the Basterds, led by Pitt, are unleashed to scalp and kill Nazis. Concurrent with their plot to take down Hitler, a young Jewish woman whose family was brutally murdered by Nazis years before, and who now runs a movie theatre in France, is cooking up her own scheme to bring down Hitler's regime. The narrative is classically Tarantino. Translation. Great story. Lots of blood and gore. Long enough to feed his ego, and too long for everyone else's comfort. That said, it is nicely woven together, funny, and feeds the yearning of anyone who wishes something other than suicide had taken out Hitler. It might also attempt, but ultimately fail, to relieve some of the guilt of the nations who waited a little too long to get him under control.
This is the kind of flick that inevitably gets the attention of the Academy. Despite Tarantino's narcissism that forced this thing onward far too long, it was a good film. Both the film and its director will get a nod this year. Honestly, I've always found Pitt's acting to be unremarkable. He glides by in great roles, but never really nails them. However, this may be his best performance to date. For me, the nomination that is a no brainer is for Christoph Waltz as Best Supporting Actor. His portrayal of Colonel Hans Landa was simply brilliant, and he should be rewarded for his efforts. The thing that may detract from Oscar contention is the early release date. While a relief from the usual summer drivel, it may be dimmer in the minds of the Academy as a result.
Inglourius Basterds was a very entertaining film, and definitely a must see for any Oscar buff.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire
Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire was released in Canada on September 13, 2009 at the Toronto International Film Festival. The star power in this one is mediocre. The lead is played by Gabourey Sidibe in her debut. The BET favorite, Mo'Nique is the horror of a mother. Mariah Carey stops by as the relatively homely social worker, and Lenny Kravitz has a minor role. The Director is Lee Daniels, best known for producing Monster's Ball. Of course, one should not neglect the marketing efforts of Oprah Winfrey.
The story is just potent. As a social worker, I confess I had little desire to see another movie that was looking just a little too much like work. Honestly, anyone with a few years in my field has met more than one Precious. I also tend to be a touch skeptical about Oprah's pet projects. That said, I was completely enthralled through the entire 109 minutes, and was a little sorry to see it end. The protagonist is an obese 16 year old victim of every abuse imaginable. She is pregnant with a second child for her father when we meet her. Despite the hell that is her life there is something hopeful, and both passive and determined within her. For the viewer who has not yet met a Precious, the story is shocking, and even if you have, it still has the potential to bring you tears before all is said and done. It is also laced with humor, and of course, challenges one's own worldview. This fictional biography is very well told, and true enough to life to be given an address closer to your own.
This film has Oscar written allllllll over it. First of all, the fact that the movie title references the book from which it originated is practically an application for adapted screenplay. A nomination in this category is likely. Directorship may also get some consideration based on the quality offered at a very low cost. Of course, the acting is brilliant. Sidibe deserves a nomination for a simply wonderful performance. Her inexperience makes this showing even more impressive. Mo'Nique was also very good, and a nod for supporting is also in order. It may have had a shot for Best Picture in a category of five, but with the extension to ten, it will be surprising if this movie is not at least rewarded with a nomination. This may also open the door for a Best Director nomination for Daniels.
Precious is a very pleasant surprise. Good call on this one O.
The story is just potent. As a social worker, I confess I had little desire to see another movie that was looking just a little too much like work. Honestly, anyone with a few years in my field has met more than one Precious. I also tend to be a touch skeptical about Oprah's pet projects. That said, I was completely enthralled through the entire 109 minutes, and was a little sorry to see it end. The protagonist is an obese 16 year old victim of every abuse imaginable. She is pregnant with a second child for her father when we meet her. Despite the hell that is her life there is something hopeful, and both passive and determined within her. For the viewer who has not yet met a Precious, the story is shocking, and even if you have, it still has the potential to bring you tears before all is said and done. It is also laced with humor, and of course, challenges one's own worldview. This fictional biography is very well told, and true enough to life to be given an address closer to your own.
This film has Oscar written allllllll over it. First of all, the fact that the movie title references the book from which it originated is practically an application for adapted screenplay. A nomination in this category is likely. Directorship may also get some consideration based on the quality offered at a very low cost. Of course, the acting is brilliant. Sidibe deserves a nomination for a simply wonderful performance. Her inexperience makes this showing even more impressive. Mo'Nique was also very good, and a nod for supporting is also in order. It may have had a shot for Best Picture in a category of five, but with the extension to ten, it will be surprising if this movie is not at least rewarded with a nomination. This may also open the door for a Best Director nomination for Daniels.
Precious is a very pleasant surprise. Good call on this one O.
The Men Who Stare At Goats
The Men Who Stare at Goats was released in Canada on September 11, 2009 at the Toronto International Film Festival. With a full cast of household names, and a title to grab the attention of any expectations were high. Names of note were George Clooney, Ewan McGregor, Jeff Bridges and Kevin Spacey. All four lads ably demonstrated their skill in portraying the complete goofball.
The story... now what does one say about this story? McGregor is a reporter, recently dumped by his wife and having a point to prove, and looking for the big story in Iraq. He meets Clooney and gradually the others, who are all part of a special unit in the US Army specializing in the paranormal. The rest is mirky, and not really essential for you to know. The phrase that comes to mind is "Coen Brothers Wannabe." It has its moments, and at times I laughed out loud at the "almost there" satire, but mostly it is a little too contrived.
Initially I had imagined this moving having screenplay potential. I will be surprised if the pool is weak enough to get a nomination in this category. The acting is good. Clooney, in particular, nails it. Though his role may be a little too reminiscent of Burn After Reading, a Coen flick that makes Goats look like a college assignment. A lot of movies remain to be seen, but I'll be surprised if this performance warrants a nod. Not much else to mention about this one.
The Men Who Stare at Goats was definitely not all I hoped for, but still worth the watch.
The story... now what does one say about this story? McGregor is a reporter, recently dumped by his wife and having a point to prove, and looking for the big story in Iraq. He meets Clooney and gradually the others, who are all part of a special unit in the US Army specializing in the paranormal. The rest is mirky, and not really essential for you to know. The phrase that comes to mind is "Coen Brothers Wannabe." It has its moments, and at times I laughed out loud at the "almost there" satire, but mostly it is a little too contrived.
Initially I had imagined this moving having screenplay potential. I will be surprised if the pool is weak enough to get a nomination in this category. The acting is good. Clooney, in particular, nails it. Though his role may be a little too reminiscent of Burn After Reading, a Coen flick that makes Goats look like a college assignment. A lot of movies remain to be seen, but I'll be surprised if this performance warrants a nod. Not much else to mention about this one.
The Men Who Stare at Goats was definitely not all I hoped for, but still worth the watch.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
The Soloist
The Soloist, released in Canada on April 24, 2009, is a Joe Wright project featuring Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey Jr.
The plot is thus. RDJ is an uninspired newspaper columnist brainstorming for material when he encounters the gifted Juilliard dropout, portrayed by Foxx, who is mentally ill and homeless. The predictability factor is over the top. Yes, Foxx's character is talented and likeable and misunderstood and tragic. And yes, the writer is apathetic, then intrigued, then determined to rescue, and battling his own demons along the way. Are you seated? Yes, they each learn from the other and the connection is tear-jerking. Except it isn't. Beyond predictable, the plot is contrived, the emotional efforts require a little too much effort, the dialogue is blah, and the overall impact is disappointing.
As for Oscar potential, the movie, screenplay and directorship leave no impression. Downey Jr. delivered an entirely forgettable performance. However, based on last year's nomination for the beyond ridiculous Tropic Thunder, the Academy may be high enough on him to surprise us with another nod. Now let's talk about Jamie Foxx. We know the lad can act following the Ray execution. But watching him in this role was tedious. In fairness, the poor performances may be a direct result of shabby screenplay.
The Soloist is a rental, at best.
The plot is thus. RDJ is an uninspired newspaper columnist brainstorming for material when he encounters the gifted Juilliard dropout, portrayed by Foxx, who is mentally ill and homeless. The predictability factor is over the top. Yes, Foxx's character is talented and likeable and misunderstood and tragic. And yes, the writer is apathetic, then intrigued, then determined to rescue, and battling his own demons along the way. Are you seated? Yes, they each learn from the other and the connection is tear-jerking. Except it isn't. Beyond predictable, the plot is contrived, the emotional efforts require a little too much effort, the dialogue is blah, and the overall impact is disappointing.
As for Oscar potential, the movie, screenplay and directorship leave no impression. Downey Jr. delivered an entirely forgettable performance. However, based on last year's nomination for the beyond ridiculous Tropic Thunder, the Academy may be high enough on him to surprise us with another nod. Now let's talk about Jamie Foxx. We know the lad can act following the Ray execution. But watching him in this role was tedious. In fairness, the poor performances may be a direct result of shabby screenplay.
The Soloist is a rental, at best.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Julie & Julia
Julie and Julia was released in Canada on August 7, 2009. Amy Adams was Julie Powell, and of course, Julia Child was mastered by my gal, Meryl Streep.
The movie is the crafty intermingling of two entirely charming stories. Nora Ephron weaves the tale of Julia Child's development as a chef and author, with the story of Julie Powell, as articulated in her personal blog, cooking her way through Child's "Mastering the Art of French Cooking." It's a fun watch. Politics and class-consciousness aplenty... culture... humor... beurre... and romance, if contemplating Julia Child as a sexual being is not too disturbing. Meryl does make it easier.
It's early for Oscar buzz, and this film has made minimal noise so far. The early release date is no doubt a factor. But let's be honest. A pre-schooler using a cheap cell phone could record Meryl Streep napping in an airport and it would be worth at least a nod. As usual, she was just brilliant. I saw the film on opening day, and the first time Streep opened her mouth as Julia Child the theatre fell apart with affectionate laughter. Streep's problem is that she is eternally competing against herself. She has another flick due for release on Christmas Day, but beyond that, the standards to which we hold her are beyond the marker for any other competitor. That said, a nomination is not a long shot here. Adams was mediocre, Chris Messina was adequate as usual, and Stanley Tucci was great. In fact, depending on the competition, his performance as Paul Child may get him consideration for Best Supporting. Screenplay may be an option. I would not have given this one Best Picture thoughts, but with the Academy proposing a pool of ten this year, who knows?
Julie and Julie was just wonderful. Don't see it hungry.
The movie is the crafty intermingling of two entirely charming stories. Nora Ephron weaves the tale of Julia Child's development as a chef and author, with the story of Julie Powell, as articulated in her personal blog, cooking her way through Child's "Mastering the Art of French Cooking." It's a fun watch. Politics and class-consciousness aplenty... culture... humor... beurre... and romance, if contemplating Julia Child as a sexual being is not too disturbing. Meryl does make it easier.
It's early for Oscar buzz, and this film has made minimal noise so far. The early release date is no doubt a factor. But let's be honest. A pre-schooler using a cheap cell phone could record Meryl Streep napping in an airport and it would be worth at least a nod. As usual, she was just brilliant. I saw the film on opening day, and the first time Streep opened her mouth as Julia Child the theatre fell apart with affectionate laughter. Streep's problem is that she is eternally competing against herself. She has another flick due for release on Christmas Day, but beyond that, the standards to which we hold her are beyond the marker for any other competitor. That said, a nomination is not a long shot here. Adams was mediocre, Chris Messina was adequate as usual, and Stanley Tucci was great. In fact, depending on the competition, his performance as Paul Child may get him consideration for Best Supporting. Screenplay may be an option. I would not have given this one Best Picture thoughts, but with the Academy proposing a pool of ten this year, who knows?
Julie and Julie was just wonderful. Don't see it hungry.
Oscar Season 2010
So 'tis the season!
For the Christmas fanatic, it's time to obsess about wish lists, last minute sales, airline bookings, Canada Post deadlines, party plans and Christmas concerts. I'm doing a little bit of that myself, being both a fan of the festivities, and a member of an enormous family.
But it's also a perfect time of year to begin a movie review blog. After several months of film drivel, we can begin to look forward to some real reels. Already, a few contenders have crept through theaters, whetting the appetites of those who cannot abide the mindless money makers and simply crave a good story with some authentic acting.
So for the next three months or so, until the Academy Awards are presented, I will see as many potential contenders as possible and review them here. I have learned that few things assist better in surviving the annual Seasonal Affective Disorder than frequent escapes to a popcorn-fragranced, darkened room in the company of other stranger-lovers, sharing a passion for plot and climax and role-immersion.
Please feel completely liberated to respond to my ramblings with your own... as long as you can handle a feisty comeback.
Let the reels begin!
For the Christmas fanatic, it's time to obsess about wish lists, last minute sales, airline bookings, Canada Post deadlines, party plans and Christmas concerts. I'm doing a little bit of that myself, being both a fan of the festivities, and a member of an enormous family.
But it's also a perfect time of year to begin a movie review blog. After several months of film drivel, we can begin to look forward to some real reels. Already, a few contenders have crept through theaters, whetting the appetites of those who cannot abide the mindless money makers and simply crave a good story with some authentic acting.
So for the next three months or so, until the Academy Awards are presented, I will see as many potential contenders as possible and review them here. I have learned that few things assist better in surviving the annual Seasonal Affective Disorder than frequent escapes to a popcorn-fragranced, darkened room in the company of other stranger-lovers, sharing a passion for plot and climax and role-immersion.
Please feel completely liberated to respond to my ramblings with your own... as long as you can handle a feisty comeback.
Let the reels begin!
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