I used to call myself a "Bay enthusiast". Bad Boys and The Rock, coming out just a year apart from each other, were quite the one-two punch debut for the former music video and commercial director. Both of those became action staples in the Hunt household almost immediately, with The Rock in particular catching my interest as it introduced me to the one, the only, Nic Cage (ALL HAIL CAGE).
Armageddon only solidified Bay's standing in my eyes by having Bruce Willis and Ben Affleck save the world by finding and drilling oil on an asteroid racing toward Earth and saving the world's economy in the process (or wait...). Anyway, I cry every time I watch it AND GUESS WHAT I'M SMART.
But let's be real here, Bad Boys II is the greatest trash masterpiece of all time. Gleefully inappropriate, insanely over the top and filled with some of the best action that Bay has ever put on screen, Bad Boys II is what puts Bay in the Hall of Fame for me. (What Hall of Fame is that, you ask? SHUT UP).
Now, it's safe to say that in the time since, Bay has never been able to reach the heights of that buddy cop action sequel (though he tried damn hard and came close with Pain & Gain) but my love for him remained the same.
And then he made Transformers.
Honestly, I really like the first one. Actually, I love it. It's big, it's dumb and it's fun. I think at the time Bay was the perfect, and perhaps, only choice to bring such a stupid cartoon (get over it, nerds) to the big screen. Pure popcorn entertainment.
The second is a chore to sit through admittedly, but I remember liking it (though it's possible I was clouded by my Bay enthusiasm), and I think the third one gets a lot of undeserved hate, as it features a ton of great and ridiculous action.
*Sigh* But Age of Extinction is borderline unwatchable. Clocking in at almost 3 hours, I somehow managed to watch this garbage more than once, though on my third go round (look, I'M SICK OK?) I had forgotten most of the movie and was positive I was almost finished only to discover I had over an hour left and promptly turned it off.
To me, Bay had lost it, or perhaps even worse, he no longer cared.
You see, I like movies. I know we live in a time where we are offered more than ever before, and if you're paying attention, there are actually a shit ton of great films of all shapes and sizes and budgets and blood types, easily and readily available for your viewing pleasure.
But sometimes, well, sometimes I want Michael Bay movies.
And over the course of a decade it just felt like the Transformers franchise had taken it out of Bay. Sure, he was able to sneak in the previously mentioned Pain & Gain, but the overall response to that film was mostly underwhelming, leading the director to his absolute worst effort with the fourth morphing robot movie. The Bay I knew and loved was dead. And so, it felt, was I.
So when a fifth car robot motion picture was announced with Bay directing, I really didn't care. I watched 13 Hours, and while watchable, it was still but a flicker of what the director used to be.
Transformers 5 came and went. Critics had never been kind to the franchise, but this time even audiences didn't care, as the film delivered the lowest box office grosses of all five movies. "So what?", I thought, as I watched Batman & Robin for the 47th time.
Then something funny happened. I saw that Transformers: The Last Knight was streaming on Hulu, and wouldn't you know it, I felt a hint of curiosity. I had heard nothing good of the Mark Wahlberger blockbuster, and his presence certainly didn't help the previous installment. But still, I had to know.
So I did it. I fucking watched it. I fucking watched the entire goddamn 2 hour and 20 minute thing.
And I kind of liked it.
Be careful. I'm not saying it's good. It's just, well, it's crazy. It begins with Merlin (you know, the wizard) drunk on a horse on his way to meet with King Arthur and all of them other knights to fight side by side with Transformers to save the world. I don't really know why and I don't really care, but I can say I thought it was very silly and very insane in a way that reminded me of the Bay I once loved.
Cut forward to present day where transformers are being hunted by the TRF (whatever) and are seeking sanctuary either in Cuba (!) or Wahlbergies junk yard. The Merlin stuff eventually comes back into play over an hour later, though I couldn't tell you how, but honestly I was just glad to see that Bay was back to not giving a shit, but in a good way.
The action scenes here have more life in them than the entirety of the previous entry, and I think I actually laughed like twice at some of the jokes, both times coming from a butler transformer who is actually the only funny thing to ever come out of the franchise. (Seriously, the transformers themselves have always been the worst part of these movies, with blood boiling dialogue and even worse racial stereotypes).
More than anything, it seemed like Bay was trying again. He even got Anthony Hopkins, who is not a stranger to simply collecting a paycheck, to give his all even while arguing with John Turturro over the phone about....well honestly it doesn't fucking matter. Point is even Hopkins was having a good time.
Shit. I realize this turned into a short essay about loving and missing Michael Bay, and I'm basically just giving Transformers 5 a back handed compliment by saying that I wanted to watch trash and trash is what I got, but I have to admit that it gave me a little hope. I could see Bay having some fun again and I really hope he gets his groove back.
Here's hoping that he is forever done with robots that change, and that he gets back to making good, old fashion action Bayhem like he did in the 90s. Give Nic a call, Michael. I think y'all could be good for each other again.
Tuesday, June 19, 2018
Sunday, April 16, 2017
The Fate of the Furious
Hello again my babies. I have risen from the grave on this day of worship to bring you my thoughts on the eighth installment of The Fast and the Furious franchise.
As most of you know, I love these films. I live these films. Ride or die, I will watch these films until the end of days.
The Fate of the Furious is no exception. Loaded with insane action, wonderful one liners and a budding romance between The Rock and Jason Statham, Fate proves that this franchise is simply invincible.
The main plot involves Dom being blackmailed (by Charlize Theron of all fucking people) into betraying his family and going rogue, forcing his former teammates to rally against their leader and save the world from World War III.
Let me repeat that. The Fate of the Furious is basically about stopping World War III. Here's hoping the next installment is about stopping World War IV.
Jesus Christ I just love these movies. Not only do they know exactly what they are (FUN), but ever since Fast Five the action on display is legit great and absolutely bonkers.
Fate is of course the first film not to feature Paul Walker's character Brian O'Connor. Walker was never the most versatile actor, but his chemistry with his cast mates was real, and his presence, while still felt in Fate, is also sorely missed. As much as I love Vin, his hulk of a Dom is not enough to carry these movies by himself.
Which I think is why the filmmakers made sure to beef up Dwayne Johnson's role this time out. Dwayne is on fire here, giving so many amazing lines involving punching asses and brushing teeth. The man sweats charisma and is completely aware of what kind of movie he is in and plays it to 11 and I couldn't love it more.
Except then he becomes best friends with Jason Statham and I do love it more.
Now, there has been some controversy over Statham's character this time out. As you all know, Statham killed our beloved Han in Furious 6 (or Tokyo Drift, depending on how sworn to the timeline you are) so the fact that he blends right into the crew in this one is a little jarring, even with a franchise as silly as this.
But you know, one of the things I love most about these movies is their willingness for consistency and continuity, especially with character interaction. If you're family, you're family forever. If you're not, you're fucked forever. So in theory, Statham should be banned and tortured and forever fucked.
BUT, Fate not only makes the wise decision to pair Statham up with Dwayne as often as possible, but it also makes the wise choice to utilize funny Jason Statham.
Now look, Statham is always great. He fights great. He looks great. But he's also really fucking funny. This should be no surprise, as he displayed these chops all the way back in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch years ago. And we all know how good the Crank movies are of course. Oh, and lets all admit he was the only good thing about Spy.
Holy shit, why doesn't this guy do more comedy?
Anyway, Statham fights multiple dudes and has a gunfight on a jet all while holding a baby. So yea, I forgive him for killing Han.
Another highlight of the film is a prison break sequence with Johnson and Statham that is as ridiculous and gravity defying as we've come to expect, and it's simply wonderful. Seriously, if the last two movies are just these two I would be more than happy.
The film has a true secret weapon though. A true stroke of genius. The casting of Scott Eastwood. Scott is the son of Clint, of course. and he is the spitting image of his dad. However, he got zero of his screen presence. He is awful and sucks the energy out of every scene he's in. I mean, this guy fucking sucks. Was it possible they just cast him thanks to his famous last name? Sure. But I've become convinced it was for something much more maniacal. The filmmakers decided they needed to let the world know just how much this dude sucks, because who else could be truly roasted by Tyrese in every scene they are in and it seem legitimate? Why else would you put this stupid idiot next to the charismatic behemoth that is Dwayne Johnson? WHY ELSE WOULD YOU HAVE THIS MORON STAND NEXT TO KURT. FUCKING. RUSSELL if for nothing else but to show how awful he is?
Oh hell, he doesn't ruin the movie in the slightest, but he sucks.
I digress.
You guys, The Fate of the Furious is great. Statham and Johnson are the highlights, but the action is as good and goofy as ever and its theme of family above all else is here through and through. Not a fan? Then don't watch it. Duh. Otherwise, grab a corona and enjoy.
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice
Spoilers.
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is a frustrating experience. A reaction to both the criticism Man of Steel received for its collateral damage and the rise of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. A hail mary attempt to keep the DC Cinematic in play, and while my boy Ben Affleck kills it (and many others) in his debut as The Batman, BvS proves to be a shining example of how not to do it.
Batman is my favorite superhero. Period. The world's greatest detective (suck it, Sherlock) is able to outsmart anyone and anything. He's a fascinating character for a filmmaker to explore, and as a film fan I feel lucky to have so many great adaptations of him. And again, Affleck does a great job, but why oh why can't they figure out Superman as well as they did 40 years ago?
Overall, I liked what Zack Snyder did with Man of Steel. I think Kevin Costners casting as Jonathon Kent was a stroke of genius, but the way they kill him was one of many misunderstandings about Superman the filmmaker had about the character. In just about every other iteration, Pa Kent dies of a heart attack, something that not even Superman can prevent. "All those powers.." says a young Clark in 1978's Superman: The Movie. It's the moment that drives Superman to want to save as many lives as he can. To live up to his adoptive fathers wish of becoming the man he knew he could be. But in Man of Steel, Jonathon instills a mistrust in humanity to his son. "My father believed the world wasn't ready", and following his fathers wishes, Clark lets him die in a tornado because he believes humans can't take it.
Points, I suppose, for trying a different take. It certainly lends an extra feeling of isolation for this alien, but it just doesn't work. Kal-El is born a hero. He doesn't learn it.
But that's the take we got. I think Henry Cavill is great in the role, and with the right script I think this guy could absolutely kill it. I still don't know how to feel about Superman killing Zod, but it certainly seemed that in the sequel he would be haunted by the action, and would do everything in his power to never do it again. I thought it was a good springboard for the next film, and a great opportunity to right some wrongs.
Oof.
Aside from Batman killing a ton of people (more on that later), BvS has no idea what to do with Superman. The future leader of the League the studio so desperately wants to set up, and they can't even repeat what they've already gotten right before.
Here, Kal-El is obsessed with his public opinion rating. There are some good ideas at play about how humanity would react to a literal God coming to Earth, and in Man of Steel, Superman deals with the military in a very Superman way. He basically says, "Hey, I'm a good guy. Lets be cool with each other". But in BvS, he becomes overly mopey about how people don't like him. He even goes on sabbatical at one point because he is so sad.
What a puss.
He often becomes angry at the drop of a hat (yes, I get Lex kidnaps his mother, but he has like, super hearing and X-ray vision and the power of flight and stuff) and his obsession with The Batman just doesn't really make sense. As Clark Kent the reporter, I get why he is so interested in a vigilante, but why he, as Superman, would actually interrupt the caped crusader in the middle of apprehending criminals to crash his batmobile to say "Hey stop, stop it" is beyond me.
It's a huge bummer because Superman is just as fascinating a character as Batman. To have someone who is so heroic, so bright in the darkest of times is inspiring, and could and should be a great contrast to Batman. But in BvS, Superman is more downbeat and depressing than anyone. Even with his ultimate sacrifice (which could have been avoided if he just gave the kryptonite spear to Wonder Woman, who clearly was capable of taking a hit or two from Doomsday) it never feels like Superman is the hero I grew up with.
I hear the term "studio interference" far too often from fans and viewers when complaining about blockbusters and superhero movies. I have no doubt that it exists, but I feel that more often than not, things just didn't work out with whatever movie. Maybe they were working against a release date, or maybe they just couldn't figure it out. But with BvS, it feels like Warner Bros. was desperate, which wasn't the case with Man of Steel. Any issue I have with MoS was because of a deliberate storytelling choice, but with BvS, it seems Snyder had to succumb to notes and notes of what to follow. To make sure X and Y were included.
I like Snyder, I feel I should say. I think given the freedom and time he could make a good Superman movie. But this apparently wasn't it. And if the rest of the DCCU is to follow the course that has been set with BvS, then I'm not sure I want this guy involved anymore.
So that's the bad, how about the good?
As I mentioned, my boy Affleck kills it as Bruce Wayne/Batman. I love seeing an older, angrier Batman onscreen. Unlike Superman, Batman's motivation in BvS is clear. He is scared by the appearance of super humans, and I completely bought into the fact that he would react with great fear and motivation, and the arc that follows is completely organic, eventually becoming the one urging for the formation of a league to be ready for whatever comes next.
It's a great performance and I think given the right script Affleck could become the ultimate onscreen Batman.
Let's just hope he isn't as willing to kill in the future.
*Throws hands up in the air* Look, maybe it's because BvS gets Superman so wrong that I'm not more bothered that they got Batman just as wrong. I mean, it is upsetting that they have Bruce Wayne repeatedly committing the act of murder that inspired him to become a vigilante to stop all acts of murder, but you know, whatever.
And if you were really reaching, you could argue that you never actually see him kill anyone, all the goons he blows up with his batmobile grenades have some sort of non lethal element to them, or that the guy with the flame thrower was just severely burned never to fully recover. (But he killed them). Oh, and as a friend pointed out, his entire plan hinges on premeditated murder.
Again, maybe it's because I've been so fortunate enough as a fan to have the Nolan Batfilms that I'm not as upset about how wrong they got Batman. Or maybe it's because Affleck is so good. The fact is I'm more upset that they got Superman so wrong.
I forgot I was talking about the good for a second. That includes Wonder Woman. Her appearance is all too brief (WITH ZERO INTERACTION WITH SUPERMAN), but it's extremely memorable and Gal Gadot will surely kill it with her solo film. Even her theme stands out as highlight of the movie.
As a setup film, it's mildly successful. We get glimpses of The Flash, Aquaman, and Cyborg. It's neat, but only time will tell how these characters will actually work together onscreen. I hate to bring up the comparison, but Marvel cast its Avengers expertly, and we had a chance to get to know each character with their own film, allowing us to get at least an idea of how they would react to each other once united. As of now, we are almost completely blind going into Justice League.
It's a risk, and based on BvS, I'm not 100% sure it will pay off.
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is a frustrating experience. A reaction to both the criticism Man of Steel received for its collateral damage and the rise of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. A hail mary attempt to keep the DC Cinematic in play, and while my boy Ben Affleck kills it (and many others) in his debut as The Batman, BvS proves to be a shining example of how not to do it.
Batman is my favorite superhero. Period. The world's greatest detective (suck it, Sherlock) is able to outsmart anyone and anything. He's a fascinating character for a filmmaker to explore, and as a film fan I feel lucky to have so many great adaptations of him. And again, Affleck does a great job, but why oh why can't they figure out Superman as well as they did 40 years ago?
Overall, I liked what Zack Snyder did with Man of Steel. I think Kevin Costners casting as Jonathon Kent was a stroke of genius, but the way they kill him was one of many misunderstandings about Superman the filmmaker had about the character. In just about every other iteration, Pa Kent dies of a heart attack, something that not even Superman can prevent. "All those powers.." says a young Clark in 1978's Superman: The Movie. It's the moment that drives Superman to want to save as many lives as he can. To live up to his adoptive fathers wish of becoming the man he knew he could be. But in Man of Steel, Jonathon instills a mistrust in humanity to his son. "My father believed the world wasn't ready", and following his fathers wishes, Clark lets him die in a tornado because he believes humans can't take it.
Points, I suppose, for trying a different take. It certainly lends an extra feeling of isolation for this alien, but it just doesn't work. Kal-El is born a hero. He doesn't learn it.
But that's the take we got. I think Henry Cavill is great in the role, and with the right script I think this guy could absolutely kill it. I still don't know how to feel about Superman killing Zod, but it certainly seemed that in the sequel he would be haunted by the action, and would do everything in his power to never do it again. I thought it was a good springboard for the next film, and a great opportunity to right some wrongs.
Oof.
Aside from Batman killing a ton of people (more on that later), BvS has no idea what to do with Superman. The future leader of the League the studio so desperately wants to set up, and they can't even repeat what they've already gotten right before.
Here, Kal-El is obsessed with his public opinion rating. There are some good ideas at play about how humanity would react to a literal God coming to Earth, and in Man of Steel, Superman deals with the military in a very Superman way. He basically says, "Hey, I'm a good guy. Lets be cool with each other". But in BvS, he becomes overly mopey about how people don't like him. He even goes on sabbatical at one point because he is so sad.
What a puss.
He often becomes angry at the drop of a hat (yes, I get Lex kidnaps his mother, but he has like, super hearing and X-ray vision and the power of flight and stuff) and his obsession with The Batman just doesn't really make sense. As Clark Kent the reporter, I get why he is so interested in a vigilante, but why he, as Superman, would actually interrupt the caped crusader in the middle of apprehending criminals to crash his batmobile to say "Hey stop, stop it" is beyond me.
It's a huge bummer because Superman is just as fascinating a character as Batman. To have someone who is so heroic, so bright in the darkest of times is inspiring, and could and should be a great contrast to Batman. But in BvS, Superman is more downbeat and depressing than anyone. Even with his ultimate sacrifice (which could have been avoided if he just gave the kryptonite spear to Wonder Woman, who clearly was capable of taking a hit or two from Doomsday) it never feels like Superman is the hero I grew up with.
I hear the term "studio interference" far too often from fans and viewers when complaining about blockbusters and superhero movies. I have no doubt that it exists, but I feel that more often than not, things just didn't work out with whatever movie. Maybe they were working against a release date, or maybe they just couldn't figure it out. But with BvS, it feels like Warner Bros. was desperate, which wasn't the case with Man of Steel. Any issue I have with MoS was because of a deliberate storytelling choice, but with BvS, it seems Snyder had to succumb to notes and notes of what to follow. To make sure X and Y were included.
I like Snyder, I feel I should say. I think given the freedom and time he could make a good Superman movie. But this apparently wasn't it. And if the rest of the DCCU is to follow the course that has been set with BvS, then I'm not sure I want this guy involved anymore.
So that's the bad, how about the good?
As I mentioned, my boy Affleck kills it as Bruce Wayne/Batman. I love seeing an older, angrier Batman onscreen. Unlike Superman, Batman's motivation in BvS is clear. He is scared by the appearance of super humans, and I completely bought into the fact that he would react with great fear and motivation, and the arc that follows is completely organic, eventually becoming the one urging for the formation of a league to be ready for whatever comes next.
It's a great performance and I think given the right script Affleck could become the ultimate onscreen Batman.
Let's just hope he isn't as willing to kill in the future.
*Throws hands up in the air* Look, maybe it's because BvS gets Superman so wrong that I'm not more bothered that they got Batman just as wrong. I mean, it is upsetting that they have Bruce Wayne repeatedly committing the act of murder that inspired him to become a vigilante to stop all acts of murder, but you know, whatever.
And if you were really reaching, you could argue that you never actually see him kill anyone, all the goons he blows up with his batmobile grenades have some sort of non lethal element to them, or that the guy with the flame thrower was just severely burned never to fully recover. (But he killed them). Oh, and as a friend pointed out, his entire plan hinges on premeditated murder.
Again, maybe it's because I've been so fortunate enough as a fan to have the Nolan Batfilms that I'm not as upset about how wrong they got Batman. Or maybe it's because Affleck is so good. The fact is I'm more upset that they got Superman so wrong.
I forgot I was talking about the good for a second. That includes Wonder Woman. Her appearance is all too brief (WITH ZERO INTERACTION WITH SUPERMAN), but it's extremely memorable and Gal Gadot will surely kill it with her solo film. Even her theme stands out as highlight of the movie.
As a setup film, it's mildly successful. We get glimpses of The Flash, Aquaman, and Cyborg. It's neat, but only time will tell how these characters will actually work together onscreen. I hate to bring up the comparison, but Marvel cast its Avengers expertly, and we had a chance to get to know each character with their own film, allowing us to get at least an idea of how they would react to each other once united. As of now, we are almost completely blind going into Justice League.
It's a risk, and based on BvS, I'm not 100% sure it will pay off.
Friday, February 26, 2016
Top Ten of 2015
Dudes. Hello. Per usual I have my list ready the weekend of the Academy Awards. Even with this extra time I give myself I still didn't have a chance to see all the movies I wanted to. But that's life! Before we get into the good stuff, I will first just randomly list a lot of movies that I really liked in no particular order.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Avengers: Age of Ultron, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 2, The Martian, Cinderella, Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation, The Revenant, San Andreas, Kingsman: The Secret Service, Trainwreck, Sisters, The Big Short, The Hateful Eight, Sicario, Krampus, Crimson Peak, Steve Jobs, Carol, Anomalisa, The Overnight, Tangerine, Kumiko: The Treasure Hunter.
Again, those are just a few of the movies I saw and really enjoyed. 2015 was a pretty great year overall, with the one true stinker of the bunch being Jurassic World. What a true piece of shit that movie was. As Tarantino says, "Never hate a movie!", but Jurassic World is fucking awful and is worth hating.
OK. Drum roll, please.
Thank you.
Here they are, the top ten movies of 2015 according to me, Robert Jordan Hunt.
10- What We Do In the Shadows- One of the few comedies where you can discover a new joke every time you watch it. Director/Writer duo Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi (Flight of the Conchords) have fashioned a hilarious and oddly heartfelt comedy focusing on vampires and their daily adventures. Numerous times this year I've had bits and lines from the movie just jump into my consciousness and make me giggle. It's my opinion that 2015 wasn't the greatest year for big screen comedy, but What We Do In the Shadows was easily the funniest.
9- Inside Out- Pixar, you're still great! You're still so very, very great! I know you can't win them all (The Good Dinosaur) but it's nice to know you're still trying. Bing Bong was the second most emotional moment I had at the movies in 2015, and luckily I wasn't the only one in the theater feeling the same way. Such good stuff.
8-Ant-Man- OK, I already feel kind of defensive about this choice. First, I believe that Avengers: Age of Ultron is a lot better than it was received, and second, I think people really glossed over this gem of a flick. It's very enjoyable on first watch. Funny, focused, and filled with a fucking dynamite cast (Michael Pena FOREVER), Ant-Man is just a very enjoyable movie. But on my second viewing I realized just how great it really is and why Marvel is going to stay at the forefront of comic book movies for the foreseeable future. Not only did Marvel follow-up one of the most anticipated sequels of all time with a small heist flick, but they did so with one of the most charismatic actors in the game, Paul Rudd. This movie has heart bursting out of its eyes, and like the best of all the Marvel movies, it never forgets to be funny (MICHAEL PENA). Cannot wait for Ant-Man and The Wasp.
7-Ex Machina- What must it be like to be Oscar Isaac right now? The guy has had a few insanely good years. And thanks to work in Star Wars and (more importantly) Ex Machina, it seems that he won't be going anywhere anytime soon. Shit, I'm even looking forward to him in all that goofy ass make up on X-Men: Apocalypse. Anyway, first time director Alex Garland crafted an intricate scifi drama focusing on gender politics, artificial intelligence, and so, so much more. Alicia Vikander's work as the robot Ava cannot be overstated. Isaac and Domhall Gleeson are great, but this movie doesn't work without Vikander. Yay scifi!
6-It Follows- Everything about this movie hit the sweet spot for me. The synth score, tone, tension. It just all felt right. This is how I like my horror, filled with ambiguity and interpretation. Maika Monroe is also making quite the name for herself in genre, thanks to this and last year's outstanding The Guest. Here's hoping she can make ID4 2 just as compelling (nothing will really make that movie compelling, but it should be pretty silly, and that's OK).
5- Furious 7- This was the single most emotional moment in a theater for me last year. Paul Walker and Vin Diesel have one last goodbye on the meta highway of Hollywood and the tears just kept streaming down my fucking face. Such a wonderful goodbye from a franchise that has focused on family since the beginning. Scoff all you want, but these movies have never tried to be anything else than what they are. Director James Wan (Saw, The Conjuring) proved that he can handle big budget action with the best of them, and I'm legit bummed that he's not coming back for Fast & Furious 8. I'm just so grateful that these movies will never end and Vin will never die.
4-Bridge of Spies- Hey guys, a new Spielberg movie came out this year and it really seemed like no one noticed. That kind of pisses me off! This movie is so, so good. The master makes it all seem so easy, so much information is given to the audience with the simple movement of the camera or a brilliantly paced edit whereas other, lesser directors would rely on exposition to inform their audience. I've heard this film called "lesser Spielberg" and I just don't get it. No, it's not as good as E.T., Jaws, or Saving Private Ryan, but it's really fucking good. This guy is still crafting cinema in a near perfect fashion after 40 years and shows no sign of slowing down. Watch this movie and bow to the fucking master.
3-Magic Mike XXL- This is straight up one of the most positive movies to ever exist. About nothing more than friendship and equal love and attention among the sexes, XXL is easily one of the best films of last year. This is the movie that the first Magic Mike was advertised as (not a knock! I love the first!). Our favorite dances go on one last road trip to a stripper convention. Not to save a friend or the ol' hangout. They go just to go. There are no stakes, there isn't even a grand prize for best stripping. They just want to hang out as a group one last time doing what they love to do, and it is a joyous adventure. In all seriousness, get off you high fucking horse and bask in the positivity that is Magic Mike XXL
2-Creed- Rocky Balboa is my favorite fictional character that is not Batman. Sylvester Stallone created one of the most enduring characters of all time in Rocky, and has somehow made that character just as interesting and heartbreaking after 40 years. But Creed is not his movie. Focusing on Apollo Creed's son, Michael B. Jordan deftly takes the lead and is just as likable and courageous as Balboa. These characters just mean so much to me. This franchise is so imminently watchable, and I can't imagine not watching them close together, just to soak up the actual lifetime journey we've had with them. I only had the chance to see this once before making this list, and I think if I had watched it just one more time it would be in the top spot. The only Oscar that really matters to me this weekend is Best Supporting Actor, for which Stallone 100% deserves. If he doesn't win, the world will end.
1- Mad Max: Fury Road.- Duh. I mean, duh. I've watched this at least 5 times and it is just as exhilarating every time. Furiosa is an all timer, and will easily go down in history as one of the greats, right up there with Ripley and Marion Ravenwood. Look, you've watched it, so you get it, right?
There you have it, dudes. That's all she wrote. Like every year, I mean to get on here more, but then that doesn't happen. At least we have this list. We'll always have that.
Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Avengers: Age of Ultron, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 2, The Martian, Cinderella, Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation, The Revenant, San Andreas, Kingsman: The Secret Service, Trainwreck, Sisters, The Big Short, The Hateful Eight, Sicario, Krampus, Crimson Peak, Steve Jobs, Carol, Anomalisa, The Overnight, Tangerine, Kumiko: The Treasure Hunter.
Again, those are just a few of the movies I saw and really enjoyed. 2015 was a pretty great year overall, with the one true stinker of the bunch being Jurassic World. What a true piece of shit that movie was. As Tarantino says, "Never hate a movie!", but Jurassic World is fucking awful and is worth hating.
OK. Drum roll, please.
Thank you.
Here they are, the top ten movies of 2015 according to me, Robert Jordan Hunt.
10- What We Do In the Shadows- One of the few comedies where you can discover a new joke every time you watch it. Director/Writer duo Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi (Flight of the Conchords) have fashioned a hilarious and oddly heartfelt comedy focusing on vampires and their daily adventures. Numerous times this year I've had bits and lines from the movie just jump into my consciousness and make me giggle. It's my opinion that 2015 wasn't the greatest year for big screen comedy, but What We Do In the Shadows was easily the funniest.
9- Inside Out- Pixar, you're still great! You're still so very, very great! I know you can't win them all (The Good Dinosaur) but it's nice to know you're still trying. Bing Bong was the second most emotional moment I had at the movies in 2015, and luckily I wasn't the only one in the theater feeling the same way. Such good stuff.
8-Ant-Man- OK, I already feel kind of defensive about this choice. First, I believe that Avengers: Age of Ultron is a lot better than it was received, and second, I think people really glossed over this gem of a flick. It's very enjoyable on first watch. Funny, focused, and filled with a fucking dynamite cast (Michael Pena FOREVER), Ant-Man is just a very enjoyable movie. But on my second viewing I realized just how great it really is and why Marvel is going to stay at the forefront of comic book movies for the foreseeable future. Not only did Marvel follow-up one of the most anticipated sequels of all time with a small heist flick, but they did so with one of the most charismatic actors in the game, Paul Rudd. This movie has heart bursting out of its eyes, and like the best of all the Marvel movies, it never forgets to be funny (MICHAEL PENA). Cannot wait for Ant-Man and The Wasp.
7-Ex Machina- What must it be like to be Oscar Isaac right now? The guy has had a few insanely good years. And thanks to work in Star Wars and (more importantly) Ex Machina, it seems that he won't be going anywhere anytime soon. Shit, I'm even looking forward to him in all that goofy ass make up on X-Men: Apocalypse. Anyway, first time director Alex Garland crafted an intricate scifi drama focusing on gender politics, artificial intelligence, and so, so much more. Alicia Vikander's work as the robot Ava cannot be overstated. Isaac and Domhall Gleeson are great, but this movie doesn't work without Vikander. Yay scifi!
6-It Follows- Everything about this movie hit the sweet spot for me. The synth score, tone, tension. It just all felt right. This is how I like my horror, filled with ambiguity and interpretation. Maika Monroe is also making quite the name for herself in genre, thanks to this and last year's outstanding The Guest. Here's hoping she can make ID4 2 just as compelling (nothing will really make that movie compelling, but it should be pretty silly, and that's OK).
5- Furious 7- This was the single most emotional moment in a theater for me last year. Paul Walker and Vin Diesel have one last goodbye on the meta highway of Hollywood and the tears just kept streaming down my fucking face. Such a wonderful goodbye from a franchise that has focused on family since the beginning. Scoff all you want, but these movies have never tried to be anything else than what they are. Director James Wan (Saw, The Conjuring) proved that he can handle big budget action with the best of them, and I'm legit bummed that he's not coming back for Fast & Furious 8. I'm just so grateful that these movies will never end and Vin will never die.
4-Bridge of Spies- Hey guys, a new Spielberg movie came out this year and it really seemed like no one noticed. That kind of pisses me off! This movie is so, so good. The master makes it all seem so easy, so much information is given to the audience with the simple movement of the camera or a brilliantly paced edit whereas other, lesser directors would rely on exposition to inform their audience. I've heard this film called "lesser Spielberg" and I just don't get it. No, it's not as good as E.T., Jaws, or Saving Private Ryan, but it's really fucking good. This guy is still crafting cinema in a near perfect fashion after 40 years and shows no sign of slowing down. Watch this movie and bow to the fucking master.
3-Magic Mike XXL- This is straight up one of the most positive movies to ever exist. About nothing more than friendship and equal love and attention among the sexes, XXL is easily one of the best films of last year. This is the movie that the first Magic Mike was advertised as (not a knock! I love the first!). Our favorite dances go on one last road trip to a stripper convention. Not to save a friend or the ol' hangout. They go just to go. There are no stakes, there isn't even a grand prize for best stripping. They just want to hang out as a group one last time doing what they love to do, and it is a joyous adventure. In all seriousness, get off you high fucking horse and bask in the positivity that is Magic Mike XXL
2-Creed- Rocky Balboa is my favorite fictional character that is not Batman. Sylvester Stallone created one of the most enduring characters of all time in Rocky, and has somehow made that character just as interesting and heartbreaking after 40 years. But Creed is not his movie. Focusing on Apollo Creed's son, Michael B. Jordan deftly takes the lead and is just as likable and courageous as Balboa. These characters just mean so much to me. This franchise is so imminently watchable, and I can't imagine not watching them close together, just to soak up the actual lifetime journey we've had with them. I only had the chance to see this once before making this list, and I think if I had watched it just one more time it would be in the top spot. The only Oscar that really matters to me this weekend is Best Supporting Actor, for which Stallone 100% deserves. If he doesn't win, the world will end.
1- Mad Max: Fury Road.- Duh. I mean, duh. I've watched this at least 5 times and it is just as exhilarating every time. Furiosa is an all timer, and will easily go down in history as one of the greats, right up there with Ripley and Marion Ravenwood. Look, you've watched it, so you get it, right?
There you have it, dudes. That's all she wrote. Like every year, I mean to get on here more, but then that doesn't happen. At least we have this list. We'll always have that.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
CREED
Rocky Balboa is one of the all time great characters. ROCKY is one of the all time great movies. The franchise, like the character, has defied all the odds and stuck around for 40 years. There were ups and downs of course, but the sixth and intended last entry in 2006 proved that Stallone knew exactly how to retire the character. I find the first and sixth entries to be wonderful bookends to Rocky, and all would have been well if we never saw the character again.
But then director Ryan Coogler came up with CREED and proved that the champ still wasn't done.
Obviously, the movie is called CREED and not ROCKY, so Stallone takes a step back here. And that's OK, because Michael B. Jordan is great in the title role. His Adonis Creed is the result of an affair his father Apollo had just before his fight in ROCKY IV. His mother died while he was young and Apollo's widow tracked him down and took him in. Against her wishes he pursues boxing. His natural talent gets him quite far, but not far enough, and eventually he is drawn to Philadelphia in the hopes to get his father's greatest opponent to train him. Cue the montage.
Like I said, Jordan is great. Adonis is desperate to make his own way and thus fights under his mothers name, but he is also desperate to make a connection with his father. He immediately identifies Rocky as family, even calling him "Unc" (uncle) from their first meeting. Jordan sells all of this expertly, with anger, determination, and even excitement all screaming through his eyes. There is of course great physicality on display, but Jordan manages to say it all with very little.
The movie touches all the bases we expect it to with the training montages, the running through Philadelphia, and the edge of your seat fight sequences, but like the best of the franchise CREED shines when its characters are just sitting together and talking. Adonis gets a great love interest in Bianca, played by Tessa Thompson. Their first date is simply them talking over dinner, and director Coogler keeps it simple, allowing these two to get to know each other. They're two very likable characters, and while they don't quite live up to the pairing of Rocky and Adrian in the first film, they make for a great pair, pushing each other to be better. Great work from all involved.
But guys, Stallone is heartbreaking here. I honestly think this is his best performance. He has always had a bit of a droopy face, but age has exaggerated that droopiness, and with it comes an extra layer of sadness. Not only is Adrian gone, but so is Paulie. And his son, only seen in picture form, has moved to Vancouver. It doesn't help that the picture is of Stallone's real life son who passed away in 2012. UGH. But Stallone brings all of that baggage with him, and he finds a new reason to keep fighting. A new reason to give his all once again.
There is a lot of nostalgia at play in CREED, but none of it feels like fan service. It references the previous films but it doesn't rely on them. It's a natural extension. Everything that Rocky has been through these last 40 years is still there, and now he is able to put all of that knowledge and experience to use for the son of his greatest opponent. And I cried like a baby.
There are two main fight sequences in the movie, and the first is done in an incredible single take. The tension is high and Coogler puts you in the action and makes you feel every hit without sacrificing the geography of the scene.
But guys, the second and main fight. Guys. The Cold War isn't at stake here. No one has to avenge Mickey or Apollo. Adonis just has to prove himself, and the stakes couldn't be higher.
Some of the best moments of my movie-going career have been at the Alamo Drafthouse. The crowds there are exactly the kind of crowds you want to see a movie with. They cheer and laugh at all the right moments. The entire theater is united for two brief hours.
I did not see CREED at an Alamo Drafthouse.
But during that final fight, when Rocky's theme finally plays for the first and only time in the movie, the crowd gasped, and each and everyone of us in the theater instantly leaned forward, glued to the screen. This fight mattered. It meant everything. And it was glorious.
CREED is an amazing film. It confidently ranks among the best of the franchise and reminds us that life is the greatest fight of all. Cheesy? Yea, probably, but it's still fucking great.
But then director Ryan Coogler came up with CREED and proved that the champ still wasn't done.
Obviously, the movie is called CREED and not ROCKY, so Stallone takes a step back here. And that's OK, because Michael B. Jordan is great in the title role. His Adonis Creed is the result of an affair his father Apollo had just before his fight in ROCKY IV. His mother died while he was young and Apollo's widow tracked him down and took him in. Against her wishes he pursues boxing. His natural talent gets him quite far, but not far enough, and eventually he is drawn to Philadelphia in the hopes to get his father's greatest opponent to train him. Cue the montage.
Like I said, Jordan is great. Adonis is desperate to make his own way and thus fights under his mothers name, but he is also desperate to make a connection with his father. He immediately identifies Rocky as family, even calling him "Unc" (uncle) from their first meeting. Jordan sells all of this expertly, with anger, determination, and even excitement all screaming through his eyes. There is of course great physicality on display, but Jordan manages to say it all with very little.
The movie touches all the bases we expect it to with the training montages, the running through Philadelphia, and the edge of your seat fight sequences, but like the best of the franchise CREED shines when its characters are just sitting together and talking. Adonis gets a great love interest in Bianca, played by Tessa Thompson. Their first date is simply them talking over dinner, and director Coogler keeps it simple, allowing these two to get to know each other. They're two very likable characters, and while they don't quite live up to the pairing of Rocky and Adrian in the first film, they make for a great pair, pushing each other to be better. Great work from all involved.
But guys, Stallone is heartbreaking here. I honestly think this is his best performance. He has always had a bit of a droopy face, but age has exaggerated that droopiness, and with it comes an extra layer of sadness. Not only is Adrian gone, but so is Paulie. And his son, only seen in picture form, has moved to Vancouver. It doesn't help that the picture is of Stallone's real life son who passed away in 2012. UGH. But Stallone brings all of that baggage with him, and he finds a new reason to keep fighting. A new reason to give his all once again.
There is a lot of nostalgia at play in CREED, but none of it feels like fan service. It references the previous films but it doesn't rely on them. It's a natural extension. Everything that Rocky has been through these last 40 years is still there, and now he is able to put all of that knowledge and experience to use for the son of his greatest opponent. And I cried like a baby.
There are two main fight sequences in the movie, and the first is done in an incredible single take. The tension is high and Coogler puts you in the action and makes you feel every hit without sacrificing the geography of the scene.
But guys, the second and main fight. Guys. The Cold War isn't at stake here. No one has to avenge Mickey or Apollo. Adonis just has to prove himself, and the stakes couldn't be higher.
Some of the best moments of my movie-going career have been at the Alamo Drafthouse. The crowds there are exactly the kind of crowds you want to see a movie with. They cheer and laugh at all the right moments. The entire theater is united for two brief hours.
I did not see CREED at an Alamo Drafthouse.
But during that final fight, when Rocky's theme finally plays for the first and only time in the movie, the crowd gasped, and each and everyone of us in the theater instantly leaned forward, glued to the screen. This fight mattered. It meant everything. And it was glorious.
CREED is an amazing film. It confidently ranks among the best of the franchise and reminds us that life is the greatest fight of all. Cheesy? Yea, probably, but it's still fucking great.
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
The Sand
Well this opportunity fell in my lap. I was given the chance to review The Sand, a creature feature about a sand dwelling monster praying on a group of hungover college students who got more than they bargained for after a night of partying at the beach.
The film's press release describes itself as a loving homage to B-horror films like Tremors, and while I can't quite say that The Sand is anywhere near as funny or memorable as that great Bacon horror-comedy, the film still manages to do quite a bit with an equally silly premise and single location.
The movie starts off with a party fueled prologue that drops some very minor hints as to how the creature arrives on the beach, though it wisely avoids any real explanation, instead just taking its premise and running with it. The rest of the film follows a who's who of standard horror characters (The Blonde, The Jock, The Guy Best Friend, The Ex-Girlfriend) as they drop one by one trying to figure out how to get escape with their limbs and lives intact.
The Sand establishes its rules early on. If your skin touches the sand, the creature will slowly suck you in, tearing away skin and body parts along the way. As with any good monster movie, a lot of the fun comes with watching the characters try, and fail, to escape their horrible situation.
Now, writers Alex Greenfield and Ben Powell have made the welcome decision to actually make the characters smart and think out their actions, a rarity in the horror genre. Each time someone suggests an idea of what to do or how to escape, at least one other person offers a reason of why it works or why it doesn't, and it actually makes sense. It adds quite a bit of suspense and surprise to the proceedings, making trying to figure who dies next all the more complicated.
The cast is lively and game, and director Isaac Gabaeff helps the film fly by with its quick pace. The low budget is well hidden for the most part, with most of the big effects being saved for the finale. Some of the bloodier parts rely more on digital effects than I usually prefer, but the kills are slow and nasty as they should be in a film like this, which helps make up the difference.
Overall, The Sand is a quick and fun little monster flick that wears its B-horror movie roots on its sleeve. So if watching attractive twenty-somethings die one by one, check it out on VOD and DVD October 13.
The film's press release describes itself as a loving homage to B-horror films like Tremors, and while I can't quite say that The Sand is anywhere near as funny or memorable as that great Bacon horror-comedy, the film still manages to do quite a bit with an equally silly premise and single location.
The movie starts off with a party fueled prologue that drops some very minor hints as to how the creature arrives on the beach, though it wisely avoids any real explanation, instead just taking its premise and running with it. The rest of the film follows a who's who of standard horror characters (The Blonde, The Jock, The Guy Best Friend, The Ex-Girlfriend) as they drop one by one trying to figure out how to get escape with their limbs and lives intact.
The Sand establishes its rules early on. If your skin touches the sand, the creature will slowly suck you in, tearing away skin and body parts along the way. As with any good monster movie, a lot of the fun comes with watching the characters try, and fail, to escape their horrible situation.
Now, writers Alex Greenfield and Ben Powell have made the welcome decision to actually make the characters smart and think out their actions, a rarity in the horror genre. Each time someone suggests an idea of what to do or how to escape, at least one other person offers a reason of why it works or why it doesn't, and it actually makes sense. It adds quite a bit of suspense and surprise to the proceedings, making trying to figure who dies next all the more complicated.
The cast is lively and game, and director Isaac Gabaeff helps the film fly by with its quick pace. The low budget is well hidden for the most part, with most of the big effects being saved for the finale. Some of the bloodier parts rely more on digital effects than I usually prefer, but the kills are slow and nasty as they should be in a film like this, which helps make up the difference.
Overall, The Sand is a quick and fun little monster flick that wears its B-horror movie roots on its sleeve. So if watching attractive twenty-somethings die one by one, check it out on VOD and DVD October 13.
Saturday, February 21, 2015
Top Ten of 2014
Hey dudes. Last year was a pretty damn good time at the movies. So good that I still haven't had the chance to see all the ones I wanted to. Shit like Top Five, Whiplash, Foxcatcher, INHERENT VICE, and A Most Violent Year. There are others of course, and I'll get to them soon enough.
But for now I'd like to talk about some movies that I did see. First, I'm just gonna list off some movies that I really liked but don't feel like explaining why. So here that goes. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 1, The Lego Movie, X-Men: Days of Future Past, 22 Jump Street, Interstellar, Neighbors, The Interview, The One I Love, Noah, Lucy, Godzilla, Wild, Boyhood, Begin Again. Sabotage, Obvious Child, Nymphomaniac volumes I & II, Joe, The Guest, Enemy, Blue Ruin, A Most Wanted Man, Only Lovers Left Alive, Cold in July, Under The Skin. Shit man, I'm sure there are numerous films I'm forgetting, but these are the ones I remembered seeing and really liking while scouring Box Office Mojo.
And then were some films that I absolutely fucking loved that have just missed my top ten. Let's take a moment now and remember those that came THIS close to being honored.
Selma- Oof, what a movie. I realize the Oscars don't really mean much, but come on dudes. How could you screw this one up? Featuring a monumental performance from David Oyelowo as Martin Luther King, Jr, Selma is the movie Lee Daniels' The Butler wanted to be. A true movie of the moment, Selma features incredible control from director Ava DuVerrnay. Oh, and that script. The filmmakers did not have the rights to any of Dr. Kings speeches, and were forced to completely make up the ones featured in the film. Holy shit they do a great job. Not only do they capture the voice and power of King, but they write the best monologues of the year, period.
Edge of Tomorrow- My love of Tom Cruise should be new to none of you. Edge of Tomorrow only strengthens that love. Smart, funny and exciting, this movie was easily one of the best that came out in the summer months. Fucking watch it already.
Ok, the moment you (as in YOU, the one person who is reading this (me)) have all been waiting for, my favorite movies from 2014.
10. Guardians of the Galaxy- This movie rules. Chris Pratt rules. Zoe Saldana rules. Dave Bautista rules. Bradley Cooper rules. Vin Diesel is God. Easily one of my favorite theatrical experiences last year. Actually, this was probably the best audience I experienced in all my years in North Carolina. Everyone in the crowd was with this flick from the very beginning. That's what I really love about Guardians of the Galaxy. The movie as a whole is infectious. In Marvel I trust.
9. The Raid 2- I'll get this out of the way right off the bat, I love the first movie more. BUT, The Raid 2 is without a doubt an action masterpiece. I appreciate that the two films really mesh well together, especially as a double feature. The first is a breathless piece of action film making that never wastes a moment, and the second one slows it down, allowing you to catch your breath a bit. That is, until it decides to unleash some jaw dropping action in your lap. And yes, that final knife fight is as good as everyone says.
8. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes- I actually thought this was gonna be a bit higher on the list, but then all the other movies ended up being really good, so whatever. Anyway, this flick actually hit me pretty hard. It's a return to the roots of the original films, in that it actually attempts to play with ideas in a way that only good science fiction can do. I don't think this movie is as good as the originals are, but it comes damn close. Ugh, and that tank sequence. So good. ALSO, just give Andy Serkis all of it. Everything. The man is so god damned good that he deserves it all.
7. Nightcrawler- If Jake Gyllenhaal ever wins an Oscar, it's because he wasn't nominated for this movie. That's not entirely accurate of course, but you know, it is. Moving right along, Gyllenhaal's portrayal of Lou Bloom is an all-timer, a true cinematic creep. "What if my problem wasn't that I don't understand people but that I don't like them?" One of the coldest, scariest lines in a movie all year, and Gyllenhaal crushes it. Much credit is also due to director/writer Dan Gilroy for crafting such a cold and darkly funny movie.
6. Locke- "Traffic is fine." I uttered that line to myself in my absolute perfect Tom Hardy voice more than any line from a movie this year. Thankfully, Hardy continues giving incredible vocal performances, giving myself ample opportunities to perfect my already perfect Tom Hardy impression. Taking place entirely in the titular characters' car for 90 minutes as he talks to numerous people on the phone, the film avoids any gimmicky traits and instead becomes a fascinating study of a genuinely good and deeply flawed human being. I joke about Hardy's varying accents from film to film, but the fact is the guy is an incredible actor, and Locke is the best example of that yet. Quick sidenote, I just watched The Drop before writing this article, which also features Hardy and another great accent. It's entirely possible that if I had seen the film earlier or waited longer to write this and let it simmer in my brain that the movie could sneak up on this list. Either way, watch both movies and marvel at how good Hardy is.
5. John Wick- I love this movie. It's just so confident and fun, showing us a world of hit men that's only hinted at and leaves you wanting more. The action is straight forward and easy to follow, and of course awesome. John Wick shoots so many people in the face. No really, if he has the option to shoot someone in the face, he takes it pretty much every chance has. Honestly, John Wick is as good as it is because the film makers took the time to create a sympathetic hero, design exciting action sequences, and then followed through. Here's hoping that the sequel is just as good if not better.
4. Snowpiercer- Another great science fiction flick, I tried to write up a piece about it after my initial viewing and just could not get out what I wanted to say. Not really sure why. The film is so weird and totally OK with it. Filled with a great cast and fucking incredible production design, Snowpiercer is just a delight.
3. The Grand Budapest Hotel- Full disclosure, I really didn't care much for this one upon first viewing. Maybe it was the hype train, my mood or whatever, but this was a real miss for me. I love Wes Anderson of course. His last film, Moonrise Kingdom was one of my favorites of 2012, and I love just about every one of his other films. So I knew I had to give this one another shot. I don't know exactly what changed for me on that second viewing, but everything clicked. From the wonderfully funny and melancholy performance by Ralph Fiennes (the one true Oscar snub of 2014), to the amazing production design (a theme?) and whimsical nature that Anderson has adopted as of late. Simply put, The Grand Budapest Hotel hit me like a bag of bricks. So sad, yet so funny. So bright, yet so dark. So much is going on in this movie, and all of it so, so good that there really isn't enough space anywhere to truly talk about it.
2. Gone Girl- Oh man, this movie. So cold, so ice cold. Every time I watch Gone Girl I feel like I'm being cleansed, like every bad movie I watched before hand is being washed away. David Fincher makes is look effortless, because duh. The score slowly and quietly begins to haunt its way into you, and the screenplay is so funny and has such a twisted take on marriage, media, and people in general that I can't help but love it. Seriously though, this movie is funny. The blackest of black comedy, yes, but after multiple viewings there is no way that Fincher and screenwriter Flynn didn't intend for this to be a comedy. Affleck's awkward and ill-timed rendition of the Law & Order theme makes me laugh just thinking about it. So bleak, so mean, and so fucking good.
1. Captain America: The Winder Soldier- There wasn't a movie I revisited more than Captain America: The Winter Soldier in 2014. Not only is the movie incredible by itself, it's also a huge step forward for Marvel as a studio. They go out of their way to present the stakes here, effectively destroying the cinematic universe as we've come to know it. Now of course, I can't merit this film on the effect it has on other movies, but it makes life easy when the flick is just so damn good. The action is well put together by the Russo brothers, giving everyone a moment to shine. But more importantly, they give the man out of time such a great story that helps make him so, so relevant in today's world. Chris Evans owns this character just as much as Robert Downey, Jr owns Iron Man at this point, and his unwavering belief in what is right is perfectly sold by Evans. And again, the stakes in this movie are sky high, and the movie SELLS it! If shit goes wrong here, it really goes wrong everywhere. And that's what makes Captain America: The Winter Soldier so exciting. It matters what these characters do, it matters that they succeed. I cannot wait to see what these next few flicks in the Marvel Cinematic Universe have in store, because they will be directly influenced by this movie.
So there it is, the list that no one wanted.
Will I be on here more this year? I hope so. I still like movies, as the title of this blog implies, so hopefully I can find some time in my (not) busy schedule to ramble about my incredible opinions.
Until then, so long dudes.
But for now I'd like to talk about some movies that I did see. First, I'm just gonna list off some movies that I really liked but don't feel like explaining why. So here that goes. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 1, The Lego Movie, X-Men: Days of Future Past, 22 Jump Street, Interstellar, Neighbors, The Interview, The One I Love, Noah, Lucy, Godzilla, Wild, Boyhood, Begin Again. Sabotage, Obvious Child, Nymphomaniac volumes I & II, Joe, The Guest, Enemy, Blue Ruin, A Most Wanted Man, Only Lovers Left Alive, Cold in July, Under The Skin. Shit man, I'm sure there are numerous films I'm forgetting, but these are the ones I remembered seeing and really liking while scouring Box Office Mojo.
And then were some films that I absolutely fucking loved that have just missed my top ten. Let's take a moment now and remember those that came THIS close to being honored.
Selma- Oof, what a movie. I realize the Oscars don't really mean much, but come on dudes. How could you screw this one up? Featuring a monumental performance from David Oyelowo as Martin Luther King, Jr, Selma is the movie Lee Daniels' The Butler wanted to be. A true movie of the moment, Selma features incredible control from director Ava DuVerrnay. Oh, and that script. The filmmakers did not have the rights to any of Dr. Kings speeches, and were forced to completely make up the ones featured in the film. Holy shit they do a great job. Not only do they capture the voice and power of King, but they write the best monologues of the year, period.
Edge of Tomorrow- My love of Tom Cruise should be new to none of you. Edge of Tomorrow only strengthens that love. Smart, funny and exciting, this movie was easily one of the best that came out in the summer months. Fucking watch it already.
Ok, the moment you (as in YOU, the one person who is reading this (me)) have all been waiting for, my favorite movies from 2014.
10. Guardians of the Galaxy- This movie rules. Chris Pratt rules. Zoe Saldana rules. Dave Bautista rules. Bradley Cooper rules. Vin Diesel is God. Easily one of my favorite theatrical experiences last year. Actually, this was probably the best audience I experienced in all my years in North Carolina. Everyone in the crowd was with this flick from the very beginning. That's what I really love about Guardians of the Galaxy. The movie as a whole is infectious. In Marvel I trust.
9. The Raid 2- I'll get this out of the way right off the bat, I love the first movie more. BUT, The Raid 2 is without a doubt an action masterpiece. I appreciate that the two films really mesh well together, especially as a double feature. The first is a breathless piece of action film making that never wastes a moment, and the second one slows it down, allowing you to catch your breath a bit. That is, until it decides to unleash some jaw dropping action in your lap. And yes, that final knife fight is as good as everyone says.
8. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes- I actually thought this was gonna be a bit higher on the list, but then all the other movies ended up being really good, so whatever. Anyway, this flick actually hit me pretty hard. It's a return to the roots of the original films, in that it actually attempts to play with ideas in a way that only good science fiction can do. I don't think this movie is as good as the originals are, but it comes damn close. Ugh, and that tank sequence. So good. ALSO, just give Andy Serkis all of it. Everything. The man is so god damned good that he deserves it all.
7. Nightcrawler- If Jake Gyllenhaal ever wins an Oscar, it's because he wasn't nominated for this movie. That's not entirely accurate of course, but you know, it is. Moving right along, Gyllenhaal's portrayal of Lou Bloom is an all-timer, a true cinematic creep. "What if my problem wasn't that I don't understand people but that I don't like them?" One of the coldest, scariest lines in a movie all year, and Gyllenhaal crushes it. Much credit is also due to director/writer Dan Gilroy for crafting such a cold and darkly funny movie.
6. Locke- "Traffic is fine." I uttered that line to myself in my absolute perfect Tom Hardy voice more than any line from a movie this year. Thankfully, Hardy continues giving incredible vocal performances, giving myself ample opportunities to perfect my already perfect Tom Hardy impression. Taking place entirely in the titular characters' car for 90 minutes as he talks to numerous people on the phone, the film avoids any gimmicky traits and instead becomes a fascinating study of a genuinely good and deeply flawed human being. I joke about Hardy's varying accents from film to film, but the fact is the guy is an incredible actor, and Locke is the best example of that yet. Quick sidenote, I just watched The Drop before writing this article, which also features Hardy and another great accent. It's entirely possible that if I had seen the film earlier or waited longer to write this and let it simmer in my brain that the movie could sneak up on this list. Either way, watch both movies and marvel at how good Hardy is.
5. John Wick- I love this movie. It's just so confident and fun, showing us a world of hit men that's only hinted at and leaves you wanting more. The action is straight forward and easy to follow, and of course awesome. John Wick shoots so many people in the face. No really, if he has the option to shoot someone in the face, he takes it pretty much every chance has. Honestly, John Wick is as good as it is because the film makers took the time to create a sympathetic hero, design exciting action sequences, and then followed through. Here's hoping that the sequel is just as good if not better.
4. Snowpiercer- Another great science fiction flick, I tried to write up a piece about it after my initial viewing and just could not get out what I wanted to say. Not really sure why. The film is so weird and totally OK with it. Filled with a great cast and fucking incredible production design, Snowpiercer is just a delight.
3. The Grand Budapest Hotel- Full disclosure, I really didn't care much for this one upon first viewing. Maybe it was the hype train, my mood or whatever, but this was a real miss for me. I love Wes Anderson of course. His last film, Moonrise Kingdom was one of my favorites of 2012, and I love just about every one of his other films. So I knew I had to give this one another shot. I don't know exactly what changed for me on that second viewing, but everything clicked. From the wonderfully funny and melancholy performance by Ralph Fiennes (the one true Oscar snub of 2014), to the amazing production design (a theme?) and whimsical nature that Anderson has adopted as of late. Simply put, The Grand Budapest Hotel hit me like a bag of bricks. So sad, yet so funny. So bright, yet so dark. So much is going on in this movie, and all of it so, so good that there really isn't enough space anywhere to truly talk about it.
2. Gone Girl- Oh man, this movie. So cold, so ice cold. Every time I watch Gone Girl I feel like I'm being cleansed, like every bad movie I watched before hand is being washed away. David Fincher makes is look effortless, because duh. The score slowly and quietly begins to haunt its way into you, and the screenplay is so funny and has such a twisted take on marriage, media, and people in general that I can't help but love it. Seriously though, this movie is funny. The blackest of black comedy, yes, but after multiple viewings there is no way that Fincher and screenwriter Flynn didn't intend for this to be a comedy. Affleck's awkward and ill-timed rendition of the Law & Order theme makes me laugh just thinking about it. So bleak, so mean, and so fucking good.
1. Captain America: The Winder Soldier- There wasn't a movie I revisited more than Captain America: The Winter Soldier in 2014. Not only is the movie incredible by itself, it's also a huge step forward for Marvel as a studio. They go out of their way to present the stakes here, effectively destroying the cinematic universe as we've come to know it. Now of course, I can't merit this film on the effect it has on other movies, but it makes life easy when the flick is just so damn good. The action is well put together by the Russo brothers, giving everyone a moment to shine. But more importantly, they give the man out of time such a great story that helps make him so, so relevant in today's world. Chris Evans owns this character just as much as Robert Downey, Jr owns Iron Man at this point, and his unwavering belief in what is right is perfectly sold by Evans. And again, the stakes in this movie are sky high, and the movie SELLS it! If shit goes wrong here, it really goes wrong everywhere. And that's what makes Captain America: The Winter Soldier so exciting. It matters what these characters do, it matters that they succeed. I cannot wait to see what these next few flicks in the Marvel Cinematic Universe have in store, because they will be directly influenced by this movie.
So there it is, the list that no one wanted.
Will I be on here more this year? I hope so. I still like movies, as the title of this blog implies, so hopefully I can find some time in my (not) busy schedule to ramble about my incredible opinions.
Until then, so long dudes.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)