Movie of the Week! (5/26/13 - 6/1/13)

Into the Wild (2007)

Sometimes real life stories make for truly compelling films. Into the Wild is based on the life of Emory University graduate, Christopher McCandless, and is a film that captures the human spirit very well. McCandless' life is at times deeply beautiful and at others equally tragic. Directed and penned (screenplay) by Sean Penn, Into the Wild was nominated for 2 Oscars and has a solid cast. The only reservation I have about picking this film as MotW is its 148 minute run time which may require digesting it in multiple sittings.

Quick Take: 'The Hangover' (2009)

I have always known that seeing someone with a hangover is a more pleasant experience than having one but I never knew how enjoyable it could really be until I watched The Hangover. The Adventures of Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stew (Ed Helms) and Alan (Zach Galifianakis) after losing their friend Doug (Justin Bartha) due to a wild bachelor party for him in Las Vegas may be the worst possible situation for them but could not be more fun for the audience.  There is no question The Hangover is a full on slap stick comedy and at times the jokes fail to move the film along but they are so funny that it becomes difficult to care. Besides, who needs jokes consistent with the plot when the plot has a certain level of unpredictability (rare for a comedy). To go along with this unique plot is the chemistry between the three leads. Each character is very different with Cooper as the cool one, Helms as the uptight one and Galifianakis as, well, let’s just say the odd one but due to the men filling the roles they all mesh together so well. Both Cooper and Helms hold their own and are perfectly casted but it is Galifianakis that steals the show. Alan would probably be a nightmare to be around in real life but that is probably what makes him so amusing on screen. Whether it be creating a wolf pack or counting cards, Alan’s antics will keep you beyond entertained with the comedic deliver and mannerisms of Galifiankis being a major reason for this. Galiifiankis alone makes The Hangover a must see but there is much more working in its favor to cause for a solid movie. 
Grade: A-

Movie of the Week! (5/19/13-5/25/13)

Friends With Kids (2012)

My selection process for this week’s Movie of the Week was interesting. I knew that I had to improve on my past couple of selections. I attempted to do something different which isn’t necessarily a bad thing but the problem is that I put little thought into my selections and only looked at them on a surface level instead of really examining how worthy they really are of being called Movie of the Week. So with all of this said, for this week’s Movie of the Week I have decided to go with the light hearted, romantic comedy Friends With Kids, a film that can be enjoyed by many. Friends with Kids focuses on Jason (Adam Scott) and Julie (Jennifer Westfeldt), best friends who decide to have a child together but choice not to be in a romantic relationship.  Of course it is predictable but it adds a new element to these types of plots that we see so often. I will admit that I did not select a heavy discussion film which is why I would like to make a promise that my next selection will be my best up to this point but for now enjoy Friends With Kids and then come back to share your thoughts.  

Quick Take: 'Star Trek' (2009)

All you trekkies can take a sigh of relief as J.J. Abrams Star Trek Reboot, Star Trek, combines classic elements of the franchise with modern day visuals all while reintroducing the now legendary characters in a simple but heartfelt story. Star Trek  focuses primarily on James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) and Spock (Zachary Quinto) along with how they become colleagues. In an excellent opening scene, the birth of Kirk takes place as his father George Kirk (Chris Hemsworth), first officer of the USS Kelvin, gives his life as he crashes the ship into the Romulan ship Narada in order to save his wife, new born son and others. Soon after this, a young Spock is ridiculed for having a human mother which leads him to join Starfleet instead of the Vulcan Science Academy. The two cross paths when Starfleet Captain Christopher Pike (Bruce Greenwood) recruits a troubled Kirk. Both Pine and Quinto fill their respected roles nicely as both only enhance the entertainment value of the characteristics that the characters have to offer. I could not help but admire the sleek set designs that Star Trek has to offer, specifically inside the Enterprise. The mostly white, clean crisp Enterprise set gives a fresh look while still managing to incorporate traditional aspects. Another featured throwback is the uniforms that appear to be extremely similar to previous wardrobe. Speaking of throwbacks, Leonard Nimoy initial appearance and involvement is perfect. All this is nice but the reason Star Trek can be considered a solid reboot is because of its story. All though simple, Star Trek’s plot is effective in laying down ground work for future films by its introducing of characters and relationships with one another in a compelling matter, something director J.J. Abrams seems to have a strong hold on.       

Grade: B+    

Review: 'Iron Man 3' (2013)

Walt Disney Pictures

The Iron Man franchise has had quite an impressive run up to this point. Five years ago Iron Man pleased both critics and audiences as it revitalized the super hero genre and launched a massive Marvel film saga. Of course with this type of success, a sequel is a given so two years later Iron Man 2 made its way to theaters. Last year, Iron Man would make his third appearance in the box office juggernaut The Avengers. That brings us to present day where we find Robert Downey Jr. in his fourth outing as the titular character in Iron Man 3. Although Downey Jr. may be back along with other cast members, Iron Man 3 is a much different film than previous installments with its lead character being the biggest difference. 

Iron Man 3 revolves around the idea that every decision we make effects are future. If we make a poor decision or negatively impact someone, we are, according to Tony Stark, ‘creating demons’. As this is being explained by Stark via voice over, the film begins in 1999 at a conference in Switzerland where we find Stark, charismatic as ever, crossing paths with Maya Hanson (Rebecca Hall), a botanist working on a regenerative treatment, and Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce), a scientist pursuing to work for his Advanced Idea Mechanics company.

Flash forward thirteen years to Christmas 2012, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) is suffering from anxiety attacks due to the events that took place in New York when working with The Avengers. At the same time, a terrorist that goes by the name The Mandarin (Ben Kingsley) has executed several attacks in the United States with one of them severely injuring Starks body guard Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau). While all of this is happening, both Hanson and Killian reappear into Starks life.      

Maybe the most notable difference between the first two Iron Man films and Iron Man 3 is Tony Stark. His genius, arrogant ways are put on the back burner as a more insecure character is put on display. In the past, the character’s humor came from his witty ways and confidence. That is seen in small portions as this time around the humor comes from him looking like the fool instead of him doing the fooling. The more noticeable insecurity of the character is seen through panic attacks. These moments attempt to make for a more human, compelling character but ultimately struggle to make a real impact in the film.

Because of this different type of character, Robert Downey Jr. is limited in what he can do with his performance. One of the biggest reasons Iron Man/Tony Stark is arguably the most beloved character in the now massive Marvel film universe is Downey Jr. Downey Jr. in the role, like the character, is at his best when the character he is taking on is the smartest, brightest and best looking in the room. With this type of character, Downey’s delivery and mannerisms are brilliant but with a more insecure character this is not the case which denies him from taking over the screen.          

It is not just the character that is different as the film, compared to part one and two, in general has a much different feel to it. It quickly becomes clear that Jon Favreau is no longer in the director’s chair as the fast pace he brought to the first two films is gone as his replacement Shane Black slows things down. The quick fire, witty dialogue is in much smaller doses as it is now drawn out and scenes play out longer. This takes away from the entertainment side of thing concerning the characters and humor but as far as action sequences go this is most detailed of the trilogy.

In regards to the humor and action, Iron Man 3 compares closely to The Avengers. This could have to do with Disney’s evolvement or that the films featured in this marvel saga are becoming more and more connected. The Avengers is referenced to twice as much if not more than past Iron Man solo outings but the style resembles it very closely. Like The Avengers, Iron Man 3’s attempt at humor is very corny and applied very thickly. It’s fun, especially for a younger audience but at times it takes away from some of the films more heartfelt moments.

Working more in the films advantage than its humor is its action sequences that also have an Avengers feel to them. The Marvel saga has become noticeably more action based in the last few films but as they are detailed, well thought out sequences it is hard to complain. In fact, I would go as far to say that the most entertaining and impressive aspects of Iron Man 3 are its action sequences. The action packed finale featuring more than one Iron Man is entertaining to say the least.       

Favreau may not be in charge on set anymore but he can be seen a lot more on screen as his character Happy Hogan plays a larger role than ever before. Also playing a larger role and getting into the action is Gwyneth Paltrow as Tony Starks now girlfriend, Pepper Potts. Don Cheadle is also featured reprising his role as Lt. Col. James Rhodes and like before this character is used merely to assist Iron Man when needed. Like any follow up film, plenty of new comers can be found. Rebecca Hall as Maya Hansen and Guy Pierce as Aldrich Killian play crucial roles in the films plot and Ben Kingsley as The Mandarin is noteworthy for his use of a hypnotizing dialect.     

Ones enjoyment level of Iron Man 3 may depend on what previous Marvel films are preferred. If The Avengers was enjoyed, than Iron Man 3 is a must see due to its similar style. If Iron Man and Iron Man 2 were more your cup of tea than you will be far from disappointed but not fully satisfied. What Marvel and Disney are doing may not be anything more than producing well-crafted actioners. In fact, it is clear that less attention is being given to dialogue and characters than there was when this massive saga started five years ago. With that said though, it is still managing to turn out entertaining films which is a reason to experience Iron Man 3.  

Grade: B-

Movie of the Week! (5/12/13 - 5/18/13)

Arrested Development: Season 1 (2003)

Okay, after two lackluster movies of the week the last two weeks, I decided to really change it up this week. Think about it for a second, who in their right mind would want to watch Equilibrium? I don't think Christian Bale has even seen the whole movie. Therefore, I shouldn't have subjected anyone to that. I'm sorry guys; I won't let that happen again. Now on to my pick, one that I am fully qualified to recommend.

In 2003 America made a huge mistake. Nearly everyone in the world overlooked Arrested Development, the best series of the 00s decade, and possibly the best show ever. Poor ratings killed the show and the only reason we got the three seasons that we did was because of the critics' universal approval of the show. Luckily for the world, the super power that is Netflix has brought back all of the talent back together for another 15 episode season four that will be released on Sunday, May 26, 2013. In honor of the forthcoming season four, I want to give everyone here at Shawgoes the chance to revisit this amazing TV show before May 26. From the writing, to the acting, to the story, to the narration, to the amazing continuity of the jokes, Arrested Development never fails to deliver.

I'll be honest, I've seen every episode at least 10 times so nothing is off limits if you want to discuss the show. Favorite characters, episodes, quotes, etc are all good talking points.

Review: 'The Big Wedding' (2013)

Lionsgate

It only took about ten minutes into The Big Wedding to realize that a more appropriate title for the film would be ‘The dumb parents at the wedding’ or maybe even ‘Blame it on Di Nero’. The film revolves around the mischief caused by the parents of both the bride and groom with Di Nero’s character always being in the middle of it. At least they start to admit to how ignorant they are in the second half of the film but that still doesn’t make up for the mess that The Big Wedding is.

Needless to say The Big Wedding centers around a wedding (actually, this is probably important to note as it is difficult to determine what the setting is while watching the film). The two most sensible people in the film, Alejandro (Ben Barnes) and Missy (Amanda Seyfried), are tying the knot, that is they can keep their family under control. Alejandro has not one, not two but three mothers (sort of). There is his adopted mother Ellie (Diane Keaton), who was once married to his father Don (Robert De Niro). Don is now not married to but living with Ellie’s best friend Bebe (Susan Sarandon), making her an unofficial step mother to Alejandro. Then there is his biological mother Madonna (the one and only Madonna. Just kidding. I couldn’t resist. This little joke is actually funnier than any jokes the film has to offer which doesn’t say much for the film. Madonna is played by Patricia Rae). Since Madonna is a devote catholic, Alejandro feels that his parents should pretend like they are still married so that she will not get upset about them being divorced.

The above plot description is how the film attempts to be funny. The Big Wedding relies on bizarre situations such as the groom having three moms or his divorced parents pretending to be married to carry the films comedy side. The problem is that this isn’t that funny. Maybe the audience is supposed to laugh at the stupidity of the situations and some will but then again, we are talking high level stupid. In one scene, instead of eating inside a restaurant, the brides father decides to have everyone eat outside on a night that rain is expected. Well they start to eat outside and then of course the rain comes which causes everyone to run inside. That’s the joke. Nothing more happens with this. Was I supposed to laugh?

These situations often revolve around sex as everyone is sleeping with each other (according to the film this is funny by itself). Even Alejandro’s brother Jared (Topher Grace) is written into this sex humor as he is a virgin but sees an opportunity to lose this label when he meets Alejandro’s biological sister Nuria (Ana Ayora) which allows for the line “My brother is having sex with my sister”.

Believe it or not, for about the first hour of the film, the ignorance of the family is mild. Do not get me wrong, there is nothing of value and it is easy ask yourself if you are getting dumber by watching it but it’s still bearable. This all goes out the window though with about 30 or so minutes remaining. The end is in sight and survival through this treacherous journey looks like a real possibility and then it hits, a scene full of revealing accusations that are pieced together in such a way that will have you cringing like never before. I keep using degrading words such as dumb, stupid and ignorant but I can’t think of more appropriate words than these for this scene. Let’s just say, I was the only one in the theater but I was embarrassed to be there.

But of course a film like this has to have a heartwarming message about family, being with someone that makes you happy and doing whatever it takes to work things out with them. It just becomes impossible to care or even recognize it after witnessing several ridicules scenes. It also doesn’t help that all of it has been seen before and at times it seems forced and irrational. I will say however that Alejandro making sure that his step mom is still able to make it to the wedding even after she can’t be seen with Don is sweet and causes for a pinch of heartfelt dialogue (also saving this film from receiving an F).   

What it boils down to is that the film industry is not about quality it is about money. How do you make money? You take all the biggest names and put them in one film. The Big Wedding is just the latest example of this but what is interesting is the names they got. Usually the stars of these films are could be considered more of a celebrity rather than an actor but this is not the case in The Big Wedding. In this film you have actors that brought Annie Hall, Travis Bickle and Louise Sawyer to life on the big screen. They agreed to do a film like this? Maybe some of the blame should be given to the actors and the films they agree to be a part of.

Grade: D 

2013 Summer Box Office Showdown

According to my calendar, May is here. This means that the much anticipated summer movie season is finally upon us. As the weather warms up so does the box office as all the heavy weight blockbusters come out to play. Like any summer movie season, this year will feature unexpected hits and misses. The fun comes when trying to determine what movies will fall into these categories.

With this in mind, we at Shawgoes To The Movies have decided to add to this fun by having, what we are calling a Summer Box Office Showdown. I want to start by saying that we are not the first to do this. I first heard of this type of challenge from Rope of Silicon where Brad Brevet and Laremy Legal do this sort of thing on their podcast Brad n’Laremy On Movies. They got the idea from Film Drunk.

The Shawgoes to the Movies edition of this contest consist of myself, Brad Shawgo, Josh Niederer (the other half of the Shawgoes to the Movies writing team) and my brother Nick. On Wednesday, May 1^st we each drafted 12 different movies. With the number one pick in the draft, Josh took the already box office monster, Iron Man 3. With the second pick, I went with the family dollar in the form of Despicable Me 2. With the third and final pick in the first round, Nick took Man of Steel.

The Shawgoes to the Movies Summer Box Office Showdown will use a film’s net gross. We will take each film that was drafted and multiply budgets by 2.5. This is done to make for a more challenging contest. If this were not done, practically every film would have a positive net income. This way, most films have to do well worldwide and not just domestically or internationally. We take this adjusted budget and subtract it from the film earnings. Allow me to use last year’s box office champ, The Avengers, as an example. The Avenger’s budget was $220 million according to Box Office Mojo. That number is multiplied by 2.5 giving us an adjusted budget of $550 million. The Avenger’s had a worldwide gross of $1.5 billion dollars. The $550 million adjusted budget is then subtracted from $1.5 billion which gives us the number that we use: $950 million. We will take all the movies we drafted and add their totals. The person with the greatest total earnings will be named the Summer Box Office Showdown champion. Below is the list of movies that each person drafted.

Josh: Iron Man 3, The Great Gatsby, Star Trek: Into Darkness, The Wolverine, The Great Gatsby, The Heat, This is the End, Percy Jackson, The World’s End, One Direction: This Is Us, Paranoia, Pacific Rim, White House Down

Brad: Despicable Me 2, Monster’s University, Fast and Furious 6, The Smurfs 2, 300: Rise of an Empire, Planes, Grown Ups 2, Turbo, Now you see me, The To Do List, Before Midnight, V/H/S 2

Nick: Man of Steel, The Hangover Part III, Epic, World War Z, The Internship, The Lone Ranger, After Earth, The Purge, 2 Guns, Elysium, Grandmasters, Getaway

What do you think? What movies will be this summer’s box offices surprises? What movies will be flops? What is your most anticipated? Who will win the Summer Box Office Showdown? 

Movie of the Week! (5/5/13-5/11/13)

Color Me Kubrick (2005)

Alan Conway is known for one thing: being Stanley Kubrick. During the early 1990’s, Conway impersonated the legendary film maker Staley Kubrick. Kubrick was rarely seen in public which made it easier for Conway to pull off the massive hoax. The film Color Me Kubrick is a comedic look at Conway’s act. The best thing the film has to offer is John Malkovich as Conway but it also brings up questions of morals and mental health and how they can collide with one another.  

Quick Take: 'Iron Man 2' (2010)

Iron Man 2 takes everything its predecessor did and multiples. The iron suits, irresponsibility of Tony Stark, explosions and bad guys are all doubled, even way beyond that at times. Fortunately, Iron Man 2 is also like the original in the way that it complements its mindless action with a heartfelt, even if small, story. Like Iron Man did through Stark becoming Iron Man, Iron Man 2 is touching as it explores of the relationship between Stark and his late father Howard.  This only reinforces, if not further stresses how great a character Tony Stark is and how great Robert Downey Jr. is in the role.

Grade: B

Quick Take: 'Iron Man' (2008)

Forget being a good comic book adaption, Iron Man is a wildly entertaining film in general. This can be credited to a number of things but above all else there is a great character in Tony Stark and performance that gives him life. Like the film, Tony Stark is cool and extremely confident but deep down there is something much more compelling. Of course though, without the suit, Stark can’t be Iron Man. Just like there can’t be Tony Stark without Robert Downey Jr. Casted perfectly or not, Downey Jr. does not allow the audience to think there is any other choice as he is as brilliant as the mind of Stark. Downey Jr. as Tony Stark does arrogance without coming off as annoying and emotionally shaken without coming off as sappy. It truly is a performance that, like the film, is captivating from start to finish. 
Grade: A-    

Quick Take: 'Broken City' (2013)

Would Broken City be a half way decent movie if all the sub plots that have nothing or little to do with the central story were removed? The answer is no. Broken City has several problems and on their own, none them by themselves are necessarily fatal to the film’s effectiveness but when they are mixed in with one another, the result is appropriate given the film’s title: broken. Above all else, Broken City wants to say loud and clear how corrupt politicians, particularly those of city politics, can be. It is successful in being loud as it puts a lot of energy into the foul play of New York City Mayor Nicholas Hostetler (Russell Crowe) making for a despicable character but is far from being clear with the several sub plots going on and eventually nowhere. On top of the messy story is the weak character in the form of the films protagonist, private detective Billy Taggart (Mark Wahlberg). Billy is supposed to be character that is out for redemption and represents ‘the good man’ but when he isn’t underwritten (like he is for the majority of the film), he is a total drama queen. Let me give you an example of this and how ridiculous Broken City can be at times: when Billy sees his girlfriend, an actress, having sex in a movie, he becomes extremely angry with her and gives up several years of sobriety as he finds the closet bar and begins to throws back drink after drink. Your probably wondering how that fits into the central plot. Well, let me just say, that makes two of us.                                                                                                          

Grade: D+