What's the last movie you saw?

[Zarquon]

As the title says, and recently(less than a week ago).
Me:
Antichrist (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0870984/)

[The Drunk Girl]

Defiance

The Guide to Recognizing Your Saints

[Lily]

In a movie theater? Huh. I don't remember. Uhm... I honestly don't remember it was so long ago. I watch a lot of foreign films on IFC and Sundance. The last movie I watched was some weird horror film with Willem Dafoe as a vampire in the movies. Wait, let me check IMDb.

Aha! Shadow of the Vampire. Very strange, but entertaining film. John Malkovich also starred, so, doubly weird.

[partofme]

I watched The Shining on Halloween.

[The Drunk Guy]

For Halloween, I watched Drag Me to Hell and Last House on the Left. I was disappointed that neither was very scary, but LHotL had a some very disturbing shit in it. It was uncomfortable.

[partofme]

For Halloween, I watched Drag Me to Hell and Last House on the Left. I was disappointed that neither was very scary, but LHotL had a some very disturbing shit in it. It was uncomfortable.


I actually enjoyed Drag Me to Hell. It wasn't really scary but the outrageous gross out moments had me laughing my ass off.

[Zarquon]

[on any media, doesn't have to be a theater.]
The Hurt Locker
its good.

[The Drunk Guy]

I actually enjoyed Drag Me to Hell. It wasn't really scary but the outrageous gross out moments had me laughing my ass off.
Definitely Raimi returning to his roots. I enjoyed it a lot.

[Michael]

I saw the premiere of the 2009 Cannes Lions Awards last night. :)

For those of you who don't know, the international advertising industry has their big annual awards competition in Cannes each year (right after the big film festival). Afterwards, a feature film length movie is made as a compliation of all the winners in all of the categories. Essentially two hours of virtually non-stop commercials - the best in the world from 2009.

Anyway, excellent commercials. This is one field where the US doesn't dominate at all. It seems like the very best commericals all come from Europe - Britain and Spain in particular. Japanese commericals have also traditionally done very well in these competitions and this year is no different - except we are now beginning to see excellent commercials from Vietnam and China too. Several good ones from India as well.

And I must say that Canadian commercials did very well this year producing some of the funniest commercials of the whole set (many I'd never seen before last night).

The only downside was a new category called "Internet short films" and these were horrific (I guess they needed a category to give a winner to Nike).

And that of course is the one downside of these 'best of' commerical ads competitions - the game is rigged by commercial advertising insiders and their clients. The biggest paying advertisers are going to get awards no matter what because the industry is dependent upon them (hence lots of awards for lame Nike ads and US auto ads).

From my perspective, European beer ads are the very best ads in the world. US lifestyle advertising is by far the worst (anything involving Nike).

[drgoodtrips]

It must be a beer thing. The beer commercials in the US are invariably among the best on television (or were - I rarely watch commercials these days because I rarely have time for much TV and because I only watch things on DVR when I do have time).

[Michael]

Agreed. As a general rule, the best ads on Canadian tv are the beer ads.

However, it is to be noted that the advertising industry is a really bad judge of advertising. They are insiders and judge according to insider values.

I know this because I study advertising/marketing (weird hobby of mine) and I happen to know that the two most massively successful advertising campaigns in Canadian advertising history were both panned by the ad industry. Indeed, in both cases the ad agency killed the campaigns and fired the campaign concept director in both examples - just about the time that the actual ad campaigns started to light up with success. The ad industry was shocked and surprised by the success of these two particular campaigns and had to rush to re-hire their directors as the publicity hit for the massive success of the campaigns.

Both were of course beer ads - the "Art of Black" campaign for Carling from the 1980's and the "I AM Canadian" for Molson about five years ago.

Neither campaign won any awards or any recognition at all. Both campaigns set market records for actual marketing success. In the case of the "Art of Black" an old brand of beer (Carling Black Label) with under 1% of the national market was boosted to 5-6% of the national market in the six month ad campaign - a sales level they held for the next dozen years. That's an enormously successful ad campaign! Likewise with the "I AM" campaign. Labatts had overtaken Molson in the never-ending battle for the Canadian beer market - the "I AM" campaign instantly reversed the lead and gave Molson the biggest lead over Labatts they've ever had (they still have that lead).

[Zarquon]

Rain Man (1988) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095953/)

[Michael]

Rain Man (1988) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095953/)

Did you go to a theater to see this or just watch it on video?

Not a bad movie I might add - about the only one with Tom Cruise that is actually watchable (the dude can't act worth shit - probably the only movie since "Risky Business" where Cruise didn't ruin the movie with his ego-style acting).

[Donkey]

I was re-watching Serenity on tv last night. Didn't finish because I was already feeling blue-ish and didn't need to watch the ending.

I am a leaf on the wind. FUCK YOU JOSS WHEDON.

[dilettante]

I was re-watching Serenity on tv last night. Didn't finish because I was already feeling blue-ish and didn't need to watch the ending.

I am a leaf on the wind. FUCK YOU JOSS WHEDON.

lol.

I rather like that whole universe. Firefly has so much promise before it was canceled. On the other hand, I thought Dollhouse was turning out rather well at the end of the first season, and it's become something of a debacle (IMHO) in season two. Perhaps Firefly would have encountered a similar fate :shrug:. Regardless, there's no hope for bringing it back now that they've gone and killed off Alan Tudyk's character. :crying:

[/URL][URL="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0876138/"] (http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0876138/)

[Donkey]

lol.

I rather like that whole universe. Firefly has so much promise before it was canceled. On the other hand, I thought Dollhouse was turning out rather well at the end of the first season, and it's become something of a debacle (IMHO) in season two. Perhaps Firefly would have encountered a similar fate :shrug:. Regardless, there's no hope for bringing it back now that they've gone and killed off Alan Tudyk's character. :crying:


I haven't seen any of this year's dollhouse. I'm really bad at watching tv as it comes out. I prefer it on dvd...

Indeed, RIP Wash. But hey, are we surprised? Joss Whedon is predictable in that as soon as you truly love someone, he will almost certainly murder them in cold blood. And yet it hurts every time.

Dr. Horrible is the best 42 minutes of all time. :lol:

[The Drunk Girl]

I know it is not a movie, but did anyone watch V?

I remember the mini-series and the television show vaguely from when I was little. Pretty much the green, oozing V when the show came on back in the day scared the shit out of me. I was just curious as if they are sticking to the original or not.

[dilettante]

I know it is not a movie, but did anyone watch V?

I remember the mini-series and the television show vaguely from when I was little. Pretty much the green, oozing V when the show came on back in the day scared the shit out of me. I was just curious as if they are sticking to the original or not.

I saw the new pilot (ala Hulu), but I never saw the original. Reptilian aliens masquerading as humans stir up trouble on earth so that other reptilian aliens masquerading as humans can show up and "save" us. Sound about right?

It wasn't terribly impressed with the pilot (I don't think we humans are nearly so open-minded and trusting and the whole thing felt rather rushed), but I did find it amusing how openly they're making connections with the Obama administration and the recent election.

[Zarquon]

Did you go to a theater to see this or just watch it on video?

downloaded it:sneaky:
I posted the review in ctrl+v.........

[Zarquon]

The Virgin Suicides(1999) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0159097/)

Besides the provocative subject-matter, and the sheer visceral impact of watching the events, both mundane and horrific, unfold in the same vein; the movie fails to deliver a strong or cathartic conclusion, and while the acting is reasonably good. and the director has meant to leave us feel as perplexed as the narrators, the latter part of the film is not well-executed and too rapid, while the story itself is rather bare-bones for my taste. Should watch it if you are satisfied by 'open-ended' stories where the writers are too lazy or timid to provide their own 'interpretation' and want you to form your own.

[Zarquon]

The Wind That Shakes The Barley (2006) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0460989/)

[The Drunk Guy]

The Wind That Shakes The Barley (2006) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0460989/)
What are your thoughts on that? Netflix recommends it for me based on my taste, but I'm iffy.

[Zarquon]

Well, from a purely historical point of view I am personally more interested in the bigger picture than periphery individual actors(this movie focuses on two brothers who participate in the Irish War of Independence and then, the Irish Civil War), with that said however, I found it to be a rather poignant and well made film, as the conceit of using the trials and tribulations of these county lads as a synecdoche for the wider conflict works very well, and I especially liked how it doesn't glorify war.

Thanks to Hollywood, one expects there to be something epic about these sort of movies, which this movie's focus on ordinary people, its unvarnished portrayal of bloodshed, and its short length(122 minutes) doesn't, and which though slightly disappointing is rather fitting given the overall tone of the movie.

Hence, its worth watching if you're a sucker for pathos and drama, not if you're expecting an Irish 'Che Guevara' or Rambo.

[Michael]

If you are into pathos and 'kitchen-sink' drama, you can't go wrong with Irish films! Seems to be a local specialty.

[Zarquon]

If....(1968) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0063850/)
I think the over-the-top fantasy sequence at the end undoes an otherwise brilliant film.
The characters' recourse to violence seems like a wasted opportunity at some real resolution.

[Michael]

If....(1968) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0063850/)
I think the over-the-top fantasy sequence at the end undoes an otherwise brilliant film.
The characters' recourse to violence seems like a wasted opportunity at some real resolution.

Brilliant film. I think the ending is particular to the time/place/culture of the film. The 1960s were time of radical challenges to the status quo - this film captures that ethos of the time. A non-violent ending would have made the film completely forgettable and unimportant (and unauthentic to the times).

Besides, I absolutely love Roddy McDowell! :)

A similar film (though more modern, less violent and less socially significant) would The Chocolate War.

[The Drunk Guy]

time/place/culture of the film
You mean milieu. Sorry.

[Zarquon]

Kramer vs. Kramer (1979) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0079417/)
One of the most intensely acted, thematically focused, well paced, and maturely scripted movies I've seen.
Just terrific.

[The Drunk Girl]

Kramer vs. Kramer (1979) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0079417/)
One of the most intensely acted, thematically focused, well paced, and maturely scripted movies I've seen.
Just terrific.


I have wanted to watch that, but never got around to it.

This isn't the last movie I saw, but a few months back I got in on the last few minutes of Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0061735/) I had watched it years ago on AMC while staying with my grandparents, and always enjoyed it (along with other classics). Even though I missed most of the movie, I still cried my eyes out listening to Spencer Tracey's closing monologue.

[Michael]

You mean milieu. Sorry.

No I didn't. :D

I had no intention of posturing as a pseudo-elitist with the usage of french words when English ones served perfectly well. ;)

[Zarquon]

Todo Sobre Mi Madre (1999) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0185125/)
Almost faultless acting, intriguing and peppy(presentation-wise) story, and all-round entertainment.
But, I think I've missed whatever point it was trying to make, as I couldn't find one, unless it is that of tolerance and adapting to circumstances.

[The Drunk Girl]

Just got through watching Doubt...still not sure where I stand.

Good movie though.

[Zarquon]

Singles (1992) (http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1040379-singles/)
Indulgent, mildly entertaining yarn about 'twentysomethings'.
Only watched it because it was on my 'to-watch' list.

[Michael]

Singles (1992) (http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1040379-singles/)
Indulgent, mildly entertaining yarn about 'twentysomethings'.
Only watched it because it was on my 'to-watch' list.

Why would it be on your "to-watch" list? It was utterly and completely panned by everyone, a failure at the boxoffice and pretty much forgotten?

Indeed, the site you use for reference is a site dedicated to really bad movies. :ummm:

[Margot]

Why would it be on your "to-watch" list? It was utterly and completely panned by everyone, a failure at the boxoffice and pretty much forgotten?

Indeed, the site you use for reference is a site dedicated to really bad movies. :ummm:

Well, hair shirts really aren't in vogue any more. Apparently some other form of self-flagellation was in order.

[Zarquon]

Why would it be on your "to-watch" list? It was utterly and completely panned by everyone, a failure at the boxoffice and pretty much forgotten?

Indeed, the site you use for reference is a site dedicated to really bad movies. :ummm:
It was on my list because I had read effusive praise about its soundtrack.
And RT isn't all that bad, especially far as top critics are concerned(just refer to the mauling received by transformers 2 ).
The tomato-meter rating is indicative of net positive reviews as opposed to average rating.

[Zarquon]

Dayereh (2000) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0255094/)
Serves its purpose, though one hoped it had been more structurally complete.

[The Drunk Girl]

It was on my list because I had read effusive praise about its soundtrack.
And RT isn't all that bad, especially far as top critics are concerned(just refer to the mauling received by transformers 2 ).
The tomato-meter rating is indicative of net positive reviews as opposed to average rating.

How long until your list is complete? However long, you seem to be going through them at a good pace :)

[Michael]

It was on my list because I had read effusive praise about its soundtrack.
Bemused giggles! :lol:

Effusive isn't quite the word for the kind of praise that has been heaped onto the Seattle music scene in the early 1990's.

Excessive, obsessive and/or hyperbolic seems to be more accurate.

So much so that I seem to be totally "anti-Seattle" on anything because of it. If you mention a new band from Seattle, I don't like them on a point of policy now (due to the number of absolutely fantastic, best music you've ever heard, totally radical and innovative new bands from Seattle that I've had to listen to that just plain suck).

I only like Nirvana in so far as they are emblematic of that self-centered generation (loud, obnoxious and all about "me").

[Zarquon]

How long until your list is complete? However long, you seem to be going through them at a good pace :)
94 more movies, to be exact.
at my self-enforced limit of 1per/day , that should be about three months of movies.:D

[Michael]

Limit of one per day? :eek:

Wow! I'd find it difficult to have the time for even one per week!

[Zarquon]

I am currently applying to college, remember?
The whole process takes 4-5 months, and semester won't begin until next August/September.
Leaves me with a lot of free time.

[Michael]

I am currently applying to college, remember?
The whole process takes 4-5 months, and semester won't begin until next August/September.
Leaves me with a lot of free time.
That process is a foreign concept to me.

I thought all college applications were processed during one's last year of high school. Applications in by March, admissions letters mailed out in June for September.

[Zarquon]

That process is a foreign concept to me.

I thought all college applications were processed during one's last year of high school. Applications in by March, admissions letters mailed out in June for September.
I miissed the deadline for the July SAT, so had to give it in October:o
That pushed me back by 6 months:mad:
Couldn't give it earlier as I had Indian exams for graduation.

[Zarquon]

The Last Of The Mohicans (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104691/)
Entertaining, with decent performances, though rather muted in terms of violence, and not as realistic or neutral as it aspires to be.

[Michael]

The Last Of The Mohicans (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104691/)
Entertaining, with decent performances, though rather muted in terms of violence, and not as realistic or neutral as it aspires to be.
OMG :eek:

I had pretty much forgotten about that - but I do remember watching the tv show when I was a little kid - it was an old 60's show that was in syndication. I never saw the movie (or knew they made one).

And if I remember the old shows correctly, Chingachgook was usually the smarter/wiser of the two in the end. I never really thought about it before...

[Americano]

OMG :eek:

I had pretty much forgotten about that - but I do remember watching the tv show when I was a little kid - it was an old 60's show that was in syndication. I never saw the movie (or knew they made one).

And if I remember the old shows correctly, Chingachgook was usually the smarter/wiser of the two in the end. I never really thought about it before...

A bit of trivia, Wallace Beery starred in the original 1920 film based on a novel by James Fenimore Cooper. It was filmed 8 times for movie theaters and twice for TV. Gary Cooper starred in a 1936 version But Berry in the original has the nod from most critics, including the 1992 version.

[The Drunk Girl]

I never saw the movie (or knew they made one).

I'm surprised. I always took it that this movie is what "made" Daniel Day-Lewis.

I think we watched it this past summer, but I didn't think it was all it was chalked up to be. However it was made in '92. Eh

[Michael]

I'm surprised. I always took it that this movie is what "made" Daniel Day-Lewis.

I think we watched it this past summer, but I didn't think it was all it was chalked up to be. However it was made in '92. Eh
Bemused giggles!

I've never heard of Daniel Day-Lewis! :lol:

As I've mentioned previously, I'm rather out of the loop on most things pop-culture related.

[The Drunk Girl]

Bemused giggles!

I've never heard of Daniel Day-Lewis! :lol:

As I've mentioned previously, I'm rather out of the loop on most things pop-culture related.


http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000358/

He's a good actor in my opinion. You never watched There Will Be Blood?!..had quite the Oscar hype a few years back. Great movie :D

[Michael]

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000358/

He's a good actor in my opinion. You never watched There Will Be Blood?!..had quite the Oscar hype a few years back. Great movie :D
I did see "My Beautiful Laundrette" and "Unbearable Lightness of Being" during the 1980's. The former was much superior to the latter in my opinion. Still never heard of the actor. I usually pay more attention to the name of the director than the actors. I consider most actors to be interchangeable and thus inconsequential.

I used to see lots of art-house films back then.

[Zarquon]

Ayneh (1999) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117056/)
First time I've watched a movie that so thoroughly goes against my expectations; the transition from reel to 'real'(it might be scripted) is completely unexpected and well-executed, though it, along with the reversal and the conclusion, preclude any catharsis and leaves one on an ambivalent note.

[Zarquon]

This Is England (2006) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0480025/)
A paradoxically original-yet-predictable, coming-of-age movie, that, in spite of good production values, fails to deliver on its promise and isn't as entertaining or insightful as it strives to be. Mostly because of its unwillingness to explore its subject more critically.
Watchable but forgettable.
And absolutely nowhere near as good as a similar and more insightful movie- American History X.

[Margot]

And absolutely nowhere near as good as a similar and more insightful movie- American History X.

That Alan Smithee sure is a good director. ;)
Actually, I can't remember if it was Smithee'd or not... Still. Good movie.

[Donkey]

Pirates of the Caribbean.

Guilty pleasure, what can I say.

[Lily]

I had to pull out my DVD of Franco Zeffirellli's Romeo and Juliet last night. What a great movie. When it first came out I think I saw it a dozen times. I've memorized most of the dialogue.

Tonight, in honor of the upcoming holiday season, I think I'll watch the film version of Jesus Christ Superstar. Several years back, Ted Neely and most of the original cast brought the show to a theater in Tampa. I took my daughter. I think old Ted had been playing the role a bit too long, honestly. His odd gesticulations at the stage door after the show made me feel as if he never quite got out of his make-up. :shrug:

[Michael]

This Is England (2006) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0480025/)
A paradoxically original-yet-predictable, coming-of-age movie, that, in spite of good production values, fails to deliver on its promise and isn't as entertaining or insightful as it strives to be. Mostly because of its unwillingness to explore its subject more critically.
Watchable but forgettable.
And absolutely nowhere near as good as a similar and more insightful movie- American History X.

Well, I guess I can scratch that one off my 'hypothetical' list of films to see. :shrug:

I'd heard about it and I'm always a fan of 'Brit-sink' films! (That's my own word for gritty British 'kitchen-sink' dramas). :D

[Michael]

I had to pull out my DVD of Franco Zeffirellli's Romeo and Juliet last night. What a great movie. When it first came out I think I saw it a dozen times. I've memorized most of the dialogue.
I recall seeing this as well. If I recall correctly, it was a rather 'colorful' rendition with a scandalously young and beautiful Juliet. ;)

What do you think of Leonardo DiCaprio's later rendition of the same? No where as good I think, but but not bad.

But then again, I think Mel Gibson did okay with Hamlet. :shrug:

(Not quite Olivier or Brannaugh, but I just like Shakespeare on film)

Tonight, in honor of the upcoming holiday season, I think I'll watch the film version of Jesus Christ Superstar. Several years back, Ted Neely and most of the original cast brought the show to a theater in Tampa. I took my daughter. I think old Ted had been playing the role a bit too long, honestly. His odd gesticulations at the stage door after the show made me feel as if he never quite got out of his make-up. :shrug:

There is only one annual holiday traditional film viewed at my house. That would be The Grinch Who Stole Christmas! :rofl:

Gawd I just love watching that movie every year! (I have it on dvd)

[Donkey]

I had to pull out my DVD of Franco Zeffirellli's Romeo and Juliet last night. What a great movie. When it first came out I think I saw it a dozen times. I've memorized most of the dialogue.

Tonight, in honor of the upcoming holiday season, I think I'll watch the film version of Jesus Christ Superstar. Several years back, Ted Neely and most of the original cast brought the show to a theater in Tampa. I took my daughter. I think old Ted had been playing the role a bit too long, honestly. His odd gesticulations at the stage door after the show made me feel as if he never quite got out of his make-up. :shrug:
Which version of JCS?

[Lily]

Which version of JCS?

It was the 90's North American tour with Ted, Carl Anderson and Irene Cara. We had to have seen it sometime between 1992-1994, before my daughter graduated high school and left for college.

[Lily]

I recall seeing this as well. If I recall correctly, it was a rather 'colorful' rendition with a scandalously young and beautiful Juliet. ;)

And a beautiful Romeo, as well. ;) But honestly? Mercutio was my favorite character in that version, closely followed by a tie between Juliet's nurse and Father Laurence.


What do you think of Leonardo DiCaprio's later rendition of the same? No where as good I think, but but not bad.

But then again, I think Mel Gibson did okay with Hamlet. :shrug:

(Not quite Olivier or Brannaugh, but I just like Shakespeare on film)


The remake was okay. I thought Claire Danes was quite good. Yes, Mel Gibson did do a very good job with Hamlet, surprisingly. Another surprise for me was Denzel Washington as Don Pedro in Much Ado.., although I could have done without Keanu Reeves (then again, I could do without Keanu Reeves in pretty much anything) I love any Shakespeare when Branagh and Thompson are involved.



There is only one annual holiday traditional film viewed at my house. That would be The Grinch Who Stole Christmas! :rofl:

Gawd I just love watching that movie every year! (I have it on dvd)


That movie freaks me out a bit, frankly. lol

[Zarquon]

Husbands and Wives (1992) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104466/)
Engrossing, lively, well-scripted, terrifically acted, witty, and perhaps one of Woody Allen's best works, certainly his best from the 90's.

[Margot]

But then again, I think Mel Gibson did okay with Hamlet. :shrug:

SIN!
Then again, I really hate the oedipal interpretation of Hamlet. He has daddy issues, people, must you make it even more difficult for him? Branagh, however, kicked ass.


There is only one annual holiday traditional film viewed at my house. That would be The Grinch Who Stole Christmas! :rofl:

Gawd I just love watching that movie every year! (I have it on dvd)

Best Christmas movie EVER. I was so insulted when the live action remake came out.


Another surprise for me was Denzel Washington as Don Pedro in Much Ado.., although I could have done without Keanu Reeves (then again, I could do without Keanu Reeves in pretty much anything) I love any Shakespeare when Branagh and Thompson are involved.

I SO agree. Much Ado has more sex appeal in its first Folio/little finger than pretty much any other Romantic Comedy before or since; Branny and Thompson are rockin'. Too bad they couldn't squeeze in Stephen Fry somehow. That would have been the icing on the cake.

[Michael]

Best Christmas movie EVER. I was so insulted when the live action remake came out.
Actually I think the story is totally fake.

Can you imagine some American town holding hands and singing xmas carols after finding out that someone had robbed the whole town's xmas presents? :lol:

That ain't reality. Those people would scream and demand murder (or mob-trample security guards at the mall to get at the shopping deals on Black Monday!)

That's xmas reality.

[Greendruid]

Actually I think the story is totally fake.

Can you imagine some American town holding hands and singing xmas carols after finding out that someone had robbed the whole town's xmas presents? :lol:

That ain't reality. Those people would scream and demand murder (or mob-trample security guards at the mall to get at the shopping deals on Black Monday!)

That's xmas reality.

Michael, they're not people! They're Whos (sp? Whoes?) for godssakes man! They don't react in those ways - you need to read more Dr. Seuss.

[Donkey]

Dr. Seuss is just brilliant.

[The Drunk Guy]

I really enjoyed the stylized Romeo+Juliet. It was '90's art at it's finest.


We watched a couple movies this weekend....

One was the new Star Trek (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0796366/), which hosted better acting than I expected, yet followed almost the exact same formula of every Star Trek movie to date. :shrug: At least it was pretty.

The other was Things We Lost in the Fire (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0469623/). Fantastic acting by Benicio del Toro and Halle Berry, though a typically anti-climatic indie style. The story was interesting and the emotions involved, even the subtle ones, were pretty powerful.

There are several flicks I'd like to catch at the theater this season, too...
The Road (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0898367/) Based on Cormac McCarthy's book of the same name, which was fantastic.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0432283/) Stop-motion animation as a major release has to be interesting.
Brothers (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0765010/) An emotionally powerful story with some of my favorite actors.
Avatar (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0499549/) Just too pretty to pass up.
Ninja Assasin (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1186367/) C'mon. Ninja plus assasin. How can one not be entertained?

[The Drunk Girl]

I really enjoyed the stylized Romeo+Juliet. It was '90's art at it's finest.


We watched a couple movies this weekend....

One was the new Star Trek (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0796366/), which hosted better acting than I expected, yet followed almost the exact same formula of every Star Trek movie to date. :shrug: At least it was pretty.

The other was Things We Lost in the Fire (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0469623/). Fantastic acting by Benicio del Toro and Halle Berry, though a typically anti-climatic indie style. The story was interesting and the emotions involved, even the subtle ones, were pretty powerful.

There are several flicks I'd like to catch at the theater this season, too...
The Road (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0898367/) Based on Cormac McCarthy's book of the same name, which was fantastic.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0432283/) Stop-motion animation as a major release has to be interesting.
Brothers (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0765010/) An emotionally powerful story with some of my favorite actors.
Avatar (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0499549/) Just too pretty to pass up.
Ninja Assasin (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1186367/) C'mon. Ninja plus assasin. How can one not be entertained?

I also got him to watch a "chick-flick" from a few years back, but I won't mention which one :rolleyes:

[Michael]

I also got him to watch a "chick-flick" from a few years back, but I won't mention which one :rolleyes:

I think that 1990s version of Romeo & Juliet qualifies as a 'chick-flick'. ;)

[The Drunk Girl]

I think that 1990s version of Romeo & Juliet qualifies as a 'chick-flick'. ;)

Possibly so, but that wasn't it.

It's amazing how men change when they're trying to court a woman/get in her pants. They'll watch anything, at least in my experiences, and then once they get you it's like pulling teeth to get them to watch a "girly" movie.

I watched Sleeping Dogs Lie (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0492492/) the other day on Netflix. It had been nominated for some awards so I thought, "what the hell." The title let's on more than what I was suspecting...as in the girl's sexual secret involved a dog! Nothing was shown, however I was particularly surprised when the secret was revealed in the first scene of the movie.

The overall premise (in a very fucked up way) of the movie was to show that sometimes secrets are good to keep from your significant other(s). In this case: admitting that she blew her dog while back in college resulted in losing her fiancee and family. Awkward...

[Zarquon]

Doubt (2008) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0918927/)
Engaging, wonderfully tense, and featuring terrific performances from Philip Seymour Hoffman and Meryl Streep.

[Donkey]

Wtf is the deal with Avatar?

[Michael]

Wtf is the deal with Avatar?

Why? Massive budget sci-fi movies always end up being a huge disappointment (long and boring, with totally lame scripts/dialogue fused in between the special effects). :shrug:

Cameron got lucky with Titanic, therefore he gets a blank check to make this movie. I can't imagine anyone expecting that it will be any good. Blank check movies out of Hollywood never are.

[Zarquon]

Paris,Texas (1984) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087884/)
I've never felt this ambivalent about a movie; its so well shot, acted, and scripted, and yet feels so stretched and lacking in catharsis, and somewhat pointless.
However, it is engaging enough to merit a viewing.

[Michael]

Paris,Texas (1984) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087884/)
I've never felt this ambivalent about a movie; its so well shot, acted, and scripted, and yet feels so stretched and lacking in catharsis, and somewhat pointless.
However, it is engaging enough to merit a viewing.

Lacking in catharsis and somewhat pointless is what makes filmwatching so interesting. That filmmakers may aspire to this is what makes filmwatching tedious sometimes.

I tend to stay away from films that win lots of 'official' accolades from film festivals as generally being too maudlin and/or melodramatic - where 'lacking catharsis' is the very definition of 'edgy'. ;)

[Americano]

Lacking in catharsis and somewhat pointless is what makes filmwatching so interesting. That filmmakers may aspire to this is what makes filmwatching tedious sometimes.

I tend to stay away from films that win lots of 'official' accolades from film festivals as generally being too maudlin and/or melodramatic - where 'lacking catharsis' is the very definition of 'edgy'. ;)

My wife, our resident movie buff, avoids film festival fodder. Independent producers have gathered enough money to produce a product that has no major distribution outlets (which limits the production budget). If a cable library or major production company with outlets to feed picks it up, they're successful. The odds are very high against success. The odds of being a major hit scary.

[Michael]

My wife, our resident movie buff, avoids film festival fodder. Independent producers have gathered enough money to produce a product that has no major distribution outlets (which limits the production budget). If a cable library or major production company with outlets to feed picks it up, they're successful. The odds are very high against success. The odds of being a major hit scary.
Yes that's true, but big budgets, polished professionalism and targetting of mass audiences tends to produce mediocre films (aka Hollywood).

Film festivals are filled with a huge variety of films. I love the indies and the foreign films precisely because they have smaller budgets and thus (seemingly) more focus on the art of the film.

I just hate the Festival judging system and the type of film they always give awards to - it is VERY political and/or personal amongst a bunch of insiders.

I've seen hundreds of films at Toronto's Festival and always, the award winners were crappy films (always maudlin). The ones I and my friends loved and still talk about years later just disappear completely.

Atom Egoyan is a classic example (I have to mention him because he's a true Toronto art-house filmmaker of very 'old school' European style). I've seen every film he ever made (they always debut at Toronto's Festival). The Festival ignored every single one of his first half-dozen films that established him as a brilliant young filmmaker. It was only after he adopted a notably more conventional style that they started to give him awards. His first award winning film (Exotica) was in my opinion his worst film to date (by far the most banal and conventional). Egoyan's next big winner got an Academy award - I consider it Egoyan's most boring film of all (Sweet Hereafter) - it was actually put into distribution. :shrug:

Once you see that kind of obviousness, its hard to take the Festival Prizes seriously.

For anyone who's curious...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atom_Egoyan
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000382/

[Zarquon]

Atom Egoyan t was actually put into distribution. :shrug:

Once you see that kind of obviousness, its hard to take the Festival Prizes seriously.

For anyone who's curious...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atom_Egoyan
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000382/
I've seen Where The Truth Lies(NC-17 version), and found it to be marginally entertaining.
Is it representative of his style?

[Michael]

I've seen Where The Truth Lies(NC-17 version), and found it to be marginally entertaining.
Is it representative of his style?
It is representative of the type of film he now makes to please Festival juries and win awards (where he adapts someone else's work) and get distribution deals.

It is NOT representative of the type of film that made his career in the first place. Anything pre-1994 is going to show his most interesting work. No one I know praises Egoyan's work for after 1994. It is all quite boring stuff (and wins lots of awards). The pre-1994 stuff is very edgy.

Be advised that I'm a jaded art-house movie fan - I've been watching these types of films for twenty years so my taste in such far is as far from Hollywood as one can get.

Btw, Peter Greenway is another fascenating filmmaker - and again, his best work is the obscure stuff. The two films that were picked up for wide distribution (and critical acclaim) were by far the worst crap he ever made (Cook, Thief, Wife and her Lover, plus Prospero's Books - neither film is watchable in my opinion, but Drowning by Numbers or Draughtsman's Contract are brilliant little films - these latter two are among my all-time favs).

[The Drunk Girl]

500 Days of Summer (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1022603/)

[Michael]

500 Days of Summer (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1022603/)

IMDB Review makes it sound like a snoozer of a chick-flick! :lol:

[The Drunk Girl]

IMDB Review makes it sound like a snoozer of a chick-flick! :lol:

Easy killer. :)

After watching it last night, I was surprised at how much of a chick flick it turned out to be. The previews I had seen really didn't seem to portray that.

With that being said it had more of a modern/indie love story going on, so there wasn't that typical "happy ending" to it. I enjoyed how it flip-flopped through the days of the relationship, comparing the early, happy days, to the end and sad ones---a nice contrast that I really haven't seen in many movies. Sometimes what is considered love/meant to be for one person doesn't necessarily apply to the other.

But, you don't have to listen to me especially since I have a vagina and am full of estrogen ;)

I just finished watching Seven Pounds (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0814314/) on good ol' Netflix. Truth be told, I never really was interested in the movie, but because I have been home by myself all freaking day I thought I would give it a go. I got teary eyed on a few parts of the movie, but that could be chalked up once again to the vag, the estrogen, and it being that time of the month (sorry fellas...I'm on the emotional side). The movie moved slow in my opinion, making the two hours seem much longer, but it seemed to go alright with the flow of the film and the character that Will Smith played.

[Michael]

Easy killer. :)
In case you haven't figured it out yet, one of the ways I foster discussion at this forum is by making contrarian arguments and/or baiting people by poking at their pet issues. ;)

As a policy, it tends to work rather well in drawing out posts from people. :D

[Zarquon]

The Soloist (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0821642/)
A load of hokey horseshit that is clearly inspired by almost every movie ever made on homeless people, 'down-on-their-luck' people, an unlikely duo, an exploitative relationship, cute and talented people with disabilities, and what not.
Simply put, I saw every scene coming a mile away.
The only redeeming parts are the musicand Robert Downey Jr's performance.
Also, Jamie Foxx is very unconvincing and not the actor to portray a homeless schizophrenic cello player.
EDIT: the fact that this movie is based on a true story, and is still so fake, makes it even worse in my book.

[The Drunk Girl]

In case you haven't figured it out yet, one of the ways I foster discussion at this forum is by making contrarian arguments and/or baiting people by poking at their pet issues. ;)

As a policy, it tends to work rather well in drawing out posts from people. :D

Well, in that case you have then upgraded yourself from "killer" to "sly bastard." :lol:

[Zarquon]

Crimes and Misdemeanors (1989) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097123/)
A brilliant, engaging, provocative and well-written film that is also a thorough entertainer. A major highlight is the contemplative mood of the film, especially towards the latter part, where the protagonist's actions are weighed and measured, but final judgment is left to the viewer. This is indubitably one of Woody Allen's finest films, especially when juxtaposed with some of his 90's output.
9/10

[Zarquon]

Inside Man (2006) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0454848/)
A superbly acted, directed and plotted film with an ensemble cast, excellent pacing , no inappropriate digressions, and apt yet subtle social commentary. Its only flaw would be a slight lack of raw emotion and perhaps overly-cerebral nature of the script.
In sum, a well-executed thriller.

[Donkey]

Tenacious D and the Pick of Destiny.


Shockingly entertaining.

[Zarquon]

4 luni, 3 saptamâni si 2 zile (2007) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1032846/)

As depressing and confusing as intended by the director, which is very.

[Michael]

Tenacious D and the Pick of Destiny.


Shockingly entertaining.
At the very least, that's an interesting title!

[Zarquon]

Bad Santa (2003) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0307987/)
A bit trite, but hilarious throughout, features a simple and effective story, supplemented by great dialogue and features appropriate acting, especially the outstanding performance by Billy bob Thornton; and its cynical yet earnest outlook encapsulates my idea of a Christmas movie.

[Greendruid]

Tenacious D and the Pick of Destiny.


Shockingly entertaining.

J-U-I-C-Y! Hilarious tribute to rock'n'roll.

[Zarquon]

8 1/2 (1963) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0056801/)
beautifully made, especially the impeccable acting; however, surrealism is not my cup of tea.

[Michael]

8 1/2 (1963) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0056801/)
beautifully made, especially the impeccable acting; however, surrealism is not my cup of tea.

I'm normally a big fan of European art-house filmmakers. And of all of them, Fellini is one of the most highly praised and I've seen a half-dozen of his films. I can't figure out why his work is praised at all. Most of his films seem utterly forgettable and silly monuments to Fellini's ego.

8 1/2 seems as lame, boring and pointless as any other film by Fellini.

[Zarquon]

All the President's Men (1976) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0074119/)

A captivating, naturalistic, subtle, well-paced, brilliantly acted, and inspiring movie.
My only gripe is about the rushed ending which doesn't deliver the triumph/catharsis that one had expected.Perhaps, being a topical film, the filmmakers felt that the events at the end were fresh in the minds of the audience, and that they inspired horror at malfeasance rather than glee at the president's eventual resignation.
In sum, a memorable cinema experience.

[partofme]

Watched Away We Go last night. A date movie that I actually enjoyed.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1176740/

[Michael]

All the President's Men (1976) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0074119/)

A captivating, naturalistic, subtle, well-paced, brilliantly acted, and inspiring movie.
My only gripe is about the rushed ending which doesn't deliver the triumph/catharsis that one had expected.Perhaps, being a topical film, the filmmakers felt that the events at the end were fresh in the minds of the audience, and that they inspired horror at malfeasance rather than glee at the president's eventual resignation.
In sum, a memorable cinema experience.
Excellent film in its day and an excellent review.

I fear that film doesn't stand the test of time though. They were still dancing round admitting the fact that the President was the Criminal-in-Chief and this was relatively normal business in Washington. Such dainty sensibilities about this issue look totally contrived and fake from our contemporary perspective.

That is to say, pretending to be shocked about Nixon's actions was a luxury Hollywood and the media engaged in. I find that more absurd than Nixon himself being surprised by the fallout.

By all accounts, Nixon played it fairly clean compared to JFK. Nixon was a model of propriety compared to the illegal acts that JFK routinely and repeatedly engaged in.

[Americano]

Excellent film in its day and an excellent review.

I fear that film doesn't stand the test of time though. They were still dancing round admitting the fact that the President was the Criminal-in-Chief and this was relatively normal business in Washington. Such dainty sensibilities about this issue look totally contrived and fake from our contemporary perspective.

That is to say, pretending to be shocked about Nixon's actions was a luxury Hollywood and the media engaged in. I find that more absurd than Nixon himself being surprised by the fallout.

By all accounts, Nixon played it fairly clean compared to JFK. Nixon was a model of propriety compared to the illegal acts that JFK routinely and repeatedly engaged in.

When your parents were Joe and Rose Kennedy, bending the rules, all rules, to suit your own purposes was inevitable.

[Zarquon]

Excellent film in its day and an excellent review.

I fear that film doesn't stand the test of time though. They were still dancing round admitting the fact that the President was the Criminal-in-Chief and this was relatively normal business in Washington. Such dainty sensibilities about this issue look totally contrived and fake from our contemporary perspective.

That is to say, pretending to be shocked about Nixon's actions was a luxury Hollywood and the media engaged in. I find that more absurd than Nixon himself being surprised by the fallout.

By all accounts, Nixon played it fairly clean compared to JFK. Nixon was a model of propriety compared to the illegal acts that JFK routinely and repeatedly engaged in.
The only reasons JFK gets all the affection is because he was young, articulate, handsome, had a gorgeous wife, and of course, because he was shot dead and hence became a symbol of hope/lost potential, and also cos he (like Obama) could bullshit rather well.
He was right about Vietnam though, he was against sending more American troops, and was of the view that the South Vietnamese had to fight the good fight themselves, and America just had to help them build their govt and military.

[Americano]

The only reasons JFK gets all the affection is because he was young, articulate, handsome, had a gorgeous wife, and of course, because he was shot dead and hence became a symbol of hope/lost potential, and also cos he (like Obama) could bullshit rather well.
He was right about Vietnam though, he was against sending more American troops, and was of the view that the South Vietnamese had to fight the good fight themselves, and America just had to help them build their govt and military.

His approval of President Diem's assassination contradicts his spoken words.

"In the final weeks of his life, Kennedy wrestled with the need to decide the future of the United States’ commitment in Vietnam. Whether or not Kennedy would have increased military involvement in Vietnam or negotiated a withdrawal of military personnel still remains hotly debated among historians and officials who served in the administrations of President Kennedy and President Lyndon B. Johnson."

http://www.jfklibrary.org/Historical+Resources/JFK+in+History/Vietnam.htm

I like to point out JFK's gargantuan sexual appetites and Joe Sr.'s bootlegging background when discussing that administration with devout and pious Catholics.

[Michael]

He was right about Vietnam though, he was against sending more American troops, and was of the view that the South Vietnamese had to fight the good fight themselves, and America just had to help them build their govt and military.
No, JFK was totally wrong about Vietnam.

Vietnam didn't need to have their government coup'd and replaced by JFK's toadies so that Vietnam could "invite" the US to help.

Vietnam wasn't a "domino" of World Soviet Dominiation.

Vietnam was just like Iraq - a war of opportunity. And JFK was the one who created the opportunity.

Never will you get a kind word from me about JFK. He was a monster.

[Zarquon]

His approval of President Diem's assassination contradicts his spoken words.
My opinion was based on what I had read, and is always amenable to change in light of new evidence(Its just changed right now).

I like to point out JFK's gargantuan sexual appetites and Joe Sr.'s bootlegging background when discussing that administration with devout and pious Catholics.
:lol::clap:
--------------- :backtopic:
28 Days Later (2002) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0289043/)
Though I refrain from saying so, I can't help calling this movie an unequivocal masterpiece or at least a must-watch.
Its understated use of the documentary style, its provocative and engaging story, its political allegory, its well-paced, focused and intelligent plot, its respect for the audience's intelligence, and its optimal run-time; make it worthy of the title of (one of) the best movies of this decade.
On reflection, I think it effortlessly captures the paranoia and insecurity that were at the core of this decade's zeitgeist(yet to see one which captures its recklessness and idiocy).
Highly recommended.

[Zarquon]

Blade Runner (1982) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083658/)
Saw the director's cut, found the pacing to be too slow, and the story too thin; perhaps the Final Cut is better, can't understand the hype around this movie.

[Margot]

Blade Runner (1982) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083658/)
Saw the director's cut, found the pacing to be too slow, and the story too thin; perhaps the Final Cut is better, can't understand the hype around this movie.

That is exactly what I thought. Only, I never finished. I just sort of wandered off and made nachos and then got angry that I'd wasted 34 minutes 27 seconds of my time on something that boring. My nachos were good, though.

[Michael]

Blade Runner (1982) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083658/)
Saw the director's cut, found the pacing to be too slow, and the story too thin; perhaps the Final Cut is better, can't understand the hype around this movie.
Agreed. I can't for the life of me figure out why this film is praised so often. I thought it was rather mediocre.

[Zarquon]

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead (2007) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0292963)

Provocative, engrossing, and somewhat entertaining, though I could see every twist coming a mile away(except the initial revelation about the protagonist's dastardly deed). Worth 117 minutes of your time, on a lazy night.

[Americano]

Julie & Julia (2009) (http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=1&ved=0CAsQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.imdb.com%2Ftitle%2Ftt1135503% 2F&ei=UTksS-PHB5HusgPr-fXWAw&usg=AFQjCNHl4Ft1R3UsnIOsiSjEUVCnOccuOw&sig2=ZSB7PJ3Ou1_ReCiUr66ffA)

It was deja vous for me. As a young man living in San Francisco I taught myself how to cook beyond boxed Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinners using Julia's cookbook. My motivation (attracting great women who avoided my regular singles bars) was far more self-serving than the movie storyline and I did experience the same blunders (but not to the extent of burning something) and triumphs. Streep was perfect casting for Julia.

[Zarquon]

Brokeback Mountain (2005) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0388795/)
Engrossing, provoking, entertaining, and a simply outstanding film all around.

[Margot]

Brokeback Mountain (2005) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0388795/)
Engrossing, provoking, entertaining, and a simply outstanding film all around.

My mother grew up in Riverton, and I've been there multiple times. Definitely romanticized in the film. (I know. It really is worse.)

[Margot]

Brokeback Mountain (2005) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0388795/)
Engrossing, provoking, entertaining, and a simply outstanding film all around.

My mother grew up in Riverton, and I've been there multiple times. Definitely romanticized in the film. (I know. It really is worse.)

[Donkey]

Coraline 2009 (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0327597/)

A very pretty adaptation of Neil Gaiman's short story. Changed a few things here and there, but not in a profound or damaging way. Terrifying as a children's movie though.

[Zarquon]

Avatar (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0499549/)
An engaging, enthralling, well-written, and thoroughly entertaining feature-film that is as intent on telling a story as it is on wowing you with spectacular images and special effects. A particularly endearing aspect of this movie is its thematic focus(environmentalism, mercenary corporations, and the downside of avarice) and its tasteful application of science-fiction cliches while inventing a few of its own.
Its groundbreaking implementation of photo-realistic CGI and good-ole surround sound result in a truly immersive experience and just like the protagonist one's awareness of his surroundings is amplified and one's perception of the real is shaken. The only let-down is the score which while adequate, isn't as memorable as the rest of the film.
And best of all is how these elements coalesce to make a sci-fi film that stays true to its genre by enthralling and raising pertinent questions, while also providing an engaging and cathartic story.

[Donkey]

Did you see it in 3d or regular?

[The Drunk Guy]

Did you see it in 3d or regular?
TDGal and I saw it in 3D last night. It was pretty awesome. The 3D makes it feel pretty real for most parts, but it loses some of that effect in the larger action sequences.

Off topic, but we had to pay an extra $3 each for the 3D glasses (not an option). As we left the theater, they had boxes that read "3D Glasses Recycling." Why wouldn't I just keep them for next time I see a 3D movie so that I don't have to pay $3 extra? :mad: I hate when these giant theaters fuck people over like that. If you need money that bad, try making all movies worth watching. ;)

[Donkey]

TDGal and I saw it in 3D last night. It was pretty awesome. The 3D makes it feel pretty real for most parts, but it loses some of that effect in the larger action sequences.

Off topic, but we had to pay an extra $3 each for the 3D glasses (not an option). As we left the theater, they had boxes that read "3D Glasses Recycling." Why wouldn't I just keep them for next time I see a 3D movie so that I don't have to pay $3 extra? :mad: I hate when these giant theaters fuck people over like that. If you need money that bad, try making all movies worth watching. ;)
I go to the theater quite rarely, mostly because it costs way more than I feel like I'm getting in value. However the last two times, I definitely felt like I got my money's worth with Inglourious Basterds and District 9. I especially enjoyed the latter because of its (relatively) minute budget.

[The Drunk Guy]

I go to the theater quite rarely, mostly because it costs way more than I feel like I'm getting in value. However the last two times, I definitely felt like I got my money's worth with Inglourious Basterds and District 9. I especially enjoyed the latter because of its (relatively) minute budget.
Avatar was worth it, even at the higher price. The look of it made it feel more real than any movie I've seen in a theater in a long time, so it will be one to remember.

[Zarquon]

Did you see it in 3d or regular?
regular, 3D not available at my location.

[dilettante]

Some friends and I are headed out to see Avatar in 3D at an IMAX theater tomorrow; I hardly ever see movies in a theater, so I figured I might as well go all out for this exception.

[Michael]

Avatar (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0499549/)
An engaging, enthralling, well-written, and thoroughly entertaining feature-film that is as intent on telling a story as it is on wowing you with spectacular images and special effects. A particularly endearing aspect of this movie is its thematic focus(environmentalism, mercenary corporations, and the downside of avarice) and its tasteful application of science-fiction cliches while inventing a few of its own.
Its groundbreaking implementation of photo-realistic CGI and good-ole surround sound result in a truly immersive experience and just like the protagonist one's awareness of his surroundings is amplified and one's perception of the real is shaken. The only let-down is the score which while adequate, isn't as memorable as the rest of the film.
And best of all is how these elements coalesce to make a sci-fi film that stays true to its genre by enthralling and raising pertinent questions, while also providing an engaging and cathartic story.
That's the first kind word I've seen about this film.

Everyone else pans it as "pretty pictures" but the plot and characters are totally flat (boring).

There are usually added comments about the child-like 'black vs white' simplicity of the basic story outline (right up there with Star Wars on that account).

[Zarquon]

So, what are your favorite movies from 2009?
Mine are:
District 9, Avatar, The Hurt Locker, Adventureland, and Coraline.
Yet to see: Up in the Air, Inglourious Basterds, A Serious Man, Invictus, A Single Man, Precious, The Invention of Lying, The Damned United, Where the Wild Things Are, Star Trek, The Informant!, Nine, Broken Embraces, and Funny People.

[Zarquon]

That's the first kind word I've seen about this film.

Everyone else pans it as "pretty pictures" but the plot and characters are totally flat (boring).

There are usually added comments about the child-like 'black vs white' simplicity of the basic story outline (right up there with Star Wars on that account).
That might have something to do with the fact that this is the first movie I've seen in a multiplex since The Dark Knight, and that I wanted to get out of the house real bad.:p
Still, its rather entertaining, and the simplicity is to be expected from such a major release.
The film received generally positive reviews from film critics. Review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rotten_Tomatoes) reports the film as holding an 83% "Fresh" approval rating based on 203 reviews
Source (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avatar_%282009_film%29#Critical_reception)

[Zarquon]

Cidade de Deus (2002) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0317248/)
didn't like it much, probably because it is similar to Slumdog Millionaire which though inspired by this, I saw first.

[The Drunk Guy]

Cidade de Deus (2002) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0317248/)
didn't like it much, probably because it is similar to Slumdog Millionaire which though inspired by this, I saw first.
I found City of God to be far superior to Slumdog Millionaire. Just a more believable sense of violent life, I suppose.

[Zarquon]

I found City of God to be far superior to Slumdog Millionaire. Just a more believable sense of violent life, I suppose.
Well, for cidade de deus a lot of great stuff was lost in translation;), given that I saw it with crap subtitles on my wide-screen laptop; someday I'll see it in HD and like it better. It was certainly more realistic given its basing on a true story and even enjoyable, but not in a cathartic or enthralling manner.
Also, Slumdog was closer to home.

[partofme]

Finally saw Inglorious Bastards. Loved it.

[Margot]

Sherlock Holmes.

Fucking Brilliant. Great acting, great story, best of all, great anti-religion, anti-mysticism message.

There is a war going on in the entertainment industry for our souls. Whoever comes next will have a hard time following that.

(Also, Robert Downey Jr. is damn sexy.)

(And Guy Ritchie retains his infinite brilliance)

[Donkey]

Nine.

Wuf.

[Zarquon]

Catch-22 (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0065528/)
Intentionally absurd and non-linear, but unfunny because of an overly faithful adaptation of the source and poor acting. Perhaps it has all to do with cultural context, but I couldn't find anything original or funny in this film.

[Zarquon]

Inglourious Basterds (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0361748/)
Awesome!
proper review later.

[Zarquon]

Inglourious Basterds (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0361748/)
Awesome!
proper review later.
An all-out entertainer from start to finish, with a superb and ensemble cast[with noteworthy performances by Christoph Waltz and Melanie Laurent ], tight pacing, highly stylized and yet viscerally satisfying action sequences, and an engrossing plot with quadri-lingual dialogue. The only drag would be the Manichean and somewhat cliched story but that's compensated by some truly fine performances and sheer intensity.

[Michael]

An all-out entertainer from start to finish, with a superb and ensemble cast[with noteworthy performances by Christoph Waltz and Melanie Laurent ], tight pacing, highly stylized and yet viscerally satisfying action sequences, and an engrossing plot with quadri-lingual dialogue. The only drag would be the Manichean and somewhat cliched story but that's compensated by some truly fine performances and sheer intensity.

Do you have software that pumps these reviews out? They seem quite formalized.

Btw, what the heck is a 'Manichean story'?

[Zarquon]

Do you have software that pumps these reviews out? They seem quite formalized.
No software, I just write like that; I write whatever I find to be notable about a film and the overall effect it has on me without getting into plot details and such, and when you do that, there tends to be a lot of consistency/repetition.
Btw, what the heck is a 'Manichean story'?
Simplistic good vs evil stuff.

[Zarquon]

Transformers:Revenge of the Fallen (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1055369)
With a furious and almost intransigent focus on special effects over story, the 'physical' over the emotional, and the appalling(and unnecessary) attempts at being 'contemporary' and 'humorous', not to mention the relentless pushing of a romantic angle where there wasn't one to be had, make this film a waste of time, money, and a potentially good experience.
The director betrays complete disinterest in the(poorly written) human characters and in telling a story and yet expects us to not only relate to them, but to also care about the 'plot' and watch this drivel till the 'epic' finale. In addition, the pathetic soundtrack and the consistently weak acting don't help either.
To top it off, rather predictably(and horrifyingly), room is left for yet another sequel!
Avoidable.

[The Drunk Guy]

Transformers:Revenge of the Fallen (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1055369)

rant

This is a random observation, but I'm reminded of an aspect of this movie that I fucking hate. It's a trend in these types of shows/movies about teenagers that just want to be normal and it's fucking stupid. That is the exact opposite of reality.

Yeah, sure, fat kids want to be normal, sickly kids want to be normal, and prego cheerleaders want to be normal. I just don't buy that the guy driving a fucking '09 Camaro that just happens to be a fucking robotcan't stand his abnormality. Nor do I believe that the hot cheerleader that's invincible hates her life. This theme has just about ruined the show Heroes for me and it makes me want to leave movie theaters too often.

/rant

[Margot]

Turtles Can Fly (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turtles_Can_Fly)

Ouch. It'll tear your heart out.

fuuuuuuck.

[Margot]

rant

This is a random observation, but I'm reminded of an aspect of this movie that I fucking hate. It's a trend in these types of shows/movies about teenagers that just want to be normal and it's fucking stupid. That is the exact opposite of reality.

Yeah, sure, fat kids want to be normal, sickly kids want to be normal, and prego cheerleaders want to be normal. I just don't buy that the guy driving a fucking '09 Camaro that just happens to be a fucking robotcan't stand his abnormality. Nor do I believe that the hot cheerleader that's invincible hates her life. This theme has just about ruined the show Heroes for me and it makes me want to leave movie theaters too often.

/rant

I agree completely. I can't think of anything more annoying.

Even by the end, when the main character realizes that it's ok to be true to his or herself it is still fucked up. Fine, society. Lets just set up an awesome dichotomy: if you're not fucking magnificent in some way (and we mean really fucking special), then your best bet is conformity. Either you're in the in-crowd, or you're in the out-crowd. And you best hope to have a giant-ass robot for a pet if you're in the out-crowd. That urge to be yourself? Ignore it. That's what all the cool kids are doing.

[cassandrabandra]

Turtles Can Fly (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turtles_Can_Fly)

Ouch. It'll tear your heart out.

fuuuuuuck.

another one by him is

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Time_for_Drunken_Horses

if you feel depressed it will either make you feel worse, or make you realise life isn't that bad where you are.

I find a lot of Persian films are really depressing.

[Michael]

Transformers:Revenge of the Fallen (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1055369)
With a furious and almost intransigent focus on special effects over story, the 'physical' over the emotional, and the appalling(and unnecessary) attempts at being 'contemporary' and 'humorous', not to mention the relentless pushing of a romantic angle where there wasn't one to be had, make this film a waste of time, money, and a potentially good experience.
The director betrays complete disinterest in the(poorly written) human characters and in telling a story and yet expects us to not only relate to them, but to also care about the 'plot' and watch this drivel till the 'epic' finale. In addition, the pathetic soundtrack and the consistently weak acting don't help either.
To top it off, rather predictably(and horrifyingly), room is left for yet another sequel!
Avoidable.

rant

This is a random observation, but I'm reminded of an aspect of this movie that I fucking hate. It's a trend in these types of shows/movies about teenagers that just want to be normal and it's fucking stupid. That is the exact opposite of reality.

Yeah, sure, fat kids want to be normal, sickly kids want to be normal, and prego cheerleaders want to be normal. I just don't buy that the guy driving a fucking '09 Camaro that just happens to be a fucking robotcan't stand his abnormality. Nor do I believe that the hot cheerleader that's invincible hates her life. This theme has just about ruined the show Heroes for me and it makes me want to leave movie theaters too often.

/rant

:thumbsup:

I agree with both!

The movie sucked and TDG nailed one of the reasons why.

[Zarquon]

(500)Days Of Summer
funny in parts, but mostly forgettable.

[The Drunk Girl]

(500)Days Of Summer
funny in parts, but mostly forgettable.

I would disagree. Sure, it's not the best flick out there but it is probably one of the best indie movies I have seen in awhile. At least with 500 Days, I wasn't left with an empty feeling and expecting something more.

The movie portrays, in my opinion, pretty accurately how relationships go. The ups: how great a person feels about their self and the one they are with. How everything is brand new and exciting. And the downs: how a person can feel like their whole world has been taken away and the questions of why did he/she leave me...how are they able to move on and I can't?

In most romance movies today, these scenes of a relationship are inaccurately displayed to the point of silliness. So you feel sad (insert a slow/sappy indie track), walk around some, pout, and pretty soon the love of your life is standing outside your door (or window if you're John Cusack) telling you how sorry they are for leaving, or professing their undying love to you. Real life does not have (immediate) happy endings, especially when it comes to love.

It was nice to see the happy ending for the main character not to get the girl that he wanted, but learning/having the ability to move on. That in itself makes the movie not-so-forgettable in my book.

[Zarquon]

I would disagree. Sure, it's not the best flick out there but it is probably one of the best indie movies I have seen in awhile. At least with 500 Days, I wasn't left with an empty feeling and expecting something more...

I certainly agree with that, I just feel that its not that great by itself, i.e. without relating it to anything else.
And I suppose given the limited good movies made for women, though this was more male-centric than most rom-coms, it might be better for you than me, relatively speaking(not trying to be presumptuous, but its true (http://jezebel.com/5426065/fuck-them-times-critic-on-hollywood-women--why-romantic-comedies-suck)).
I just couldn't relate to that yuppie having any problems.

[Zarquon]

Star Trek (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0796366/)
High on production values, middling on emotional impact, and low on intellectual engagement and moral provocation.
Adequately entertaining, but uninspiring.

[Michael]

...High on production values, middling on emotional impact, and low on intellectual engagement and moral provocation.
Adequately entertaining, but uninspiring.

That description could probably apply to 99% of Hollywood production for the last thirty years. :lol:

[partofme]

Star Trek (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0796366/)
High on production values, middling on emotional impact, and low on intellectual engagement and moral provocation.
Adequately entertaining, but uninspiring.

I sort of wish a news series would be made instead of a movie franchise. What is best about Star Trek never comes out in the movies. That being said I thought it was better than most summer blockbusters.

[The Drunk Guy]

I sort of wish a news series would be made instead of a movie franchise. What is best about Star Trek never comes out in the movies. That being said I thought it was better than most summer blockbusters.
Do you really want a new series in this day and age? No more collections of short stories, but lots of drawn out soap-opera-style shit. Gross.

[Zarquon]

The Damned United (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1226271/)
A riveting story, unpretentiously good acting, an authentic feel(setting/dialogue/score), and masterful pacing make The Damned United a bonafide entertainer.
The only things lacking are scope-which is a restriction imposed by the nature of the subject-and innovation-there are only so many ways one can adapt a biographical novel; besides which, the whole enterprise feels more suited to the t.v. screen than the big one.
That notwithstanding, TDU is a worthwhile and memorable film, if only for Michael Sheen's performance and his chemistry with Timothy Spall.

[Michael]

Do you really want a new series in this day and age? No more collections of short stories, but lots of drawn out soap-opera-style shit. Gross.

Good point. The art of writing on tv seems to have deteriorated. Good quality short stories (the kind that the original Star Trek did) are almost non-existent on tv - they all try to do season long soap opera type stories now.

I hate soap-opera type shows that focus entirely upon the personal relationships of various characters - mostly because the characters are so mono-dimensional and fake (or really stupid) to begin with.

If people want soap-operas, they should watch Coronation Street. It is the ultimate in such techniques.

[partofme]

Do you really want a new series in this day and age? No more collections of short stories, but lots of drawn out soap-opera-style shit. Gross.

I would like to see it as a generation forward from the previous ones. I miss actually seeing a vision of the future since so many Star Trek franchises have been in the same periods of time.

But really I think television is better today than it has been on my life although much of that is now on cable. I look at Lost and Fringe (both created by the guy that directed the new Star Trek movie) and think a series could really be done well.

[Michael]

I would like to see it as a generation forward from the previous ones. I miss actually seeing a vision of the future since so many Star Trek franchises have been in the same periods of time.
Actually, I think this is a big problem for these types of shows.

None of them seem to devote much thought into depicting futurism in the first place. So the first one that tries to do that will look really weird and odd.

Everything is just whiz-bang high-tech improvements with no explanations or problems. That's how people like their sci-fi it seems - all shiny computers and socialist societies and no explanations or problems with anything.

[partofme]

Actually, I think this is a big problem for these types of shows.

None of them seem to devote much thought into depicting futurism in the first place. So the first one that tries to do that will look really weird and odd.

Everything is just whiz-bang high-tech improvements with no explanations or problems. That's how people like their sci-fi it seems - all shiny computers and socialist societies and no explanations or problems with anything.


I suppose but Star Trek: The Next Generation did a really good job at it and lasted for seven seasons and went on to spawn four movies. And First Contact is widely regarded as the best of them and also tried to go back and show a past and how it related to those futures.

[Americano]

Good point. The art of writing on tv seems to have deteriorated. Good quality short stories (the kind that the original Star Trek did) are almost non-existent on tv - they all try to do season long soap opera type stories now.

Cuts production costs way down while increasing margin. They can put a season in the can for far less than the cost of a season of individual short stories.

I hate soap-opera type shows that focus entirely upon the personal relationships of various characters - mostly because the characters are so mono-dimensional and fake (or really stupid) to begin with.

If people want soap-operas, they should watch Coronation Street. It is the ultimate in such techniques.

[Zarquon]

The Auteur (2008) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0906319/)
hilarious, though not satirically focused.

[Agent Zero]

Saw V.

[Margot]

The Man From Earth (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Man_from_Earth)

I hate movies that are all dialogue. I'm sorry, but I'm too smart to enjoy watching other people run around in circles, particularly when I can't toss in my own 2¢. This reminded me of Before Sunrise and Before Sunset- both of which make me want the entire human race to end, just to stop the stupid.

Also, it is always a shock for me to realize that people still honestly believe the Bible. I really, truly forget that most people still believe in God.

[Zarquon]

The Man From Earth (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Man_from_Earth)

I hate movies that are all dialogue. I'm sorry, but I'm too smart to enjoy watching other people run around in circles, particularly when I can't toss in my own 2¢. This reminded me of Before Sunrise and Before Sunset- both of which make me want the entire human race to end, just to stop the stupid.

Also, it is always a shock for me to realize that people still honestly believe the Bible. I really, truly forget that most people still believe in God.
I gave it a 4/5...but it was a long time ago; I thought the dialogue-driven story both worked and was necessary given the meager $250,000 budget, and was absolutely riveted by the conversation.

[Zarquon]

The Invention Of Lying (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1058017/)
The premise itself is the problem with this film; its alright for a 15-minute comedy sketch but unsuitable for a full-length motion picture. Consequently, the script feels too thin and appears to be stretched to fit the running-time rather than for serving any artistic purpose, and the humour itself is nothing exceptional except for a few laugh-out-loud moments.
Further, the pacing is awful, there are far too many periods of inaction, and there isn't any conflict or real story here, and the 'message' of this film is both cliched and condescending. I wish Ricky Gervais had treated his audience with more respect and made a more intelligent film(like one of his t.v. shows), but perhaps film isn't really the best medium for him.
In sum, a lackluster and avoidable feature.

[cassandrabandra]

I watched Pan's Labyrinth last night - it just happened to be on television and I thought why not?

I forgot how I had reacted to that movie when I first saw it. its not that its a bad film - its just such an awful story, and the film is so dark.

I find my tolerance for the dark side of human nature is wearing thin.

[Americano]

I watched Pan's Labyrinth last night - it just happened to be on television and I thought why not?

I forgot how I had reacted to that movie when I first saw it. its not that its a bad film - its just such an awful story, and the film is so dark.

I find my tolerance for the dark side of human nature is wearing thin.

That's what happened to my tolerance for people in general. Back on topic, there are so many low quality movies being produced to fill the demand for mindless escape (common in trying economic times) and sate cable broadcasting appetites that discovering a gem takes enormous patience or a need to fill a lot of time with meaningless drivel poorly disguised as entertainment.

[Zarquon]

South Park: Bigger Longer & Uncut (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0158983/)

81 minutes of puerile fun.

[Michael]

I watched Pan's Labyrinth last night - it just happened to be on television and I thought why not?

I forgot how I had reacted to that movie when I first saw it. its not that its a bad film - its just such an awful story, and the film is so dark.

I find my tolerance for the dark side of human nature is wearing thin.

I rather liked that film! :)

The world is a rather dark place in my opinion. Goodness is the exception not the rule.

[Zarquon]

Funny People (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1201167/)
This film is divided into two halves: the first one is engaging, visceral, and intense; the second one is meandering, less intense, and slightly off-putting.
Perhaps the filmmakers were being too ambitious, as it certainly feels like they had numerous things to say and were too eager to say them all at once,i.e., the narrative focus is lost in the second half and barely recovered by the end, which itself is more ambiguous than cathartic.
However, this is certainly one of the most well-acted, visceral, provocative, novel, and memorable films of the previous year, though not quite meeting the standards it sets for itself or as entertaining as it should be.
Worthwhile.

[The Drunk Guy]

I rather liked that film! :)

The world is a rather dark place in my opinion. Goodness is the exception not the rule.
Ditto on the like. I prefer darkness in my movies. Adds realism.

[Greendruid]

We just finished the miniseries Torchwood:Children of Earth. WOW! What an awesome piece of work that was. For those who don't know, Torchwood is an offshoot of the popular British Sci-Fi oldie and goodie, Dr. Who. There are two seasons before this miniseries premiered and I recommend them for viewing first to understand the characters.

The plot of this miniseries brings you to the brink of asking the big questions about humanity without sticking an opinion in your face. Either way, brilliant work in the genre.

[cassandrabandra]

I rather liked that film! :)

The world is a rather dark place in my opinion. Goodness is the exception not the rule.


Yes. I liked it too - I think it was very well done, and did not have a formulaic happy ending. The capitan seemed very real to me - someone who had no boundaries when it came to others - including his stepdaughter - but who still had - was it a desire for immortality or something else through his son?

the world is a dark place. I don't need to be reminded of it. I have come across a lot of stuff about the Spanish civil war since i first saw that film, so it has another layer of meaning for me.

I guess it was a film where once was enough for me. I had decided to watch it this time, but couldn't see it through.

didn't give me nightmares, don't even know it made me think ... just have a lower tolerance for such things.

[cassandrabandra]

We just finished the miniseries Torchwood:Children of Earth. WOW! What an awesome piece of work that was. For those who don't know, Torchwood is an offshoot of the popular British Sci-Fi oldie and goodie, Dr. Who. There are two seasons before this miniseries premiered and I recommend them for viewing first to understand the characters.

The plot of this miniseries brings you to the brink of asking the big questions about humanity without sticking an opinion in your face. Either way, brilliant work in the genre.

I love Dr Who.

absolutely. I used to think it always had a slightly marxist flavour.

had no idea torchwood was related . will have to check it out sometime.

[Margot]

I love Dr Who.

absolutely. I used to think it always had a slightly marxist flavour.

had no idea torchwood was related . will have to check it out sometime.

I just finished The End of Time last night. Yeah. It was amazing. I don't think I like the new reincarnation, though.

[Zarquon]

Humpday (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1334537/)
Novel, but neither particularly engaging nor entertaining; and pacing is really off.

[partofme]

I just finished The End of Time last night. Yeah. It was amazing. I don't think I like the new reincarnation, though.

The End of Time wasn't bad but I never feel like Dr. Who finales are as good as other episodes. The guy that is taking over running the show is one of it's best writers so I'm hopefull about that.

Torchwood is always excellent.

[Margot]

The End of Time wasn't bad but I never feel like Dr. Who finales are as good as other episodes. The guy that is taking over running the show is one of it's best writers so I'm hopefull about that.

Torchwood is always excellent.

I take it you've seen Jekyll, then? I'm thrilled that Moffat is taking over.

[justonemorevoice]

dont laugh: the princess and the frog. :lol:

[Zarquon]

dont laugh: the princess and the frog. :lol:
^TIME magazine's movie of the year.

[The Drunk Guy]

^TIME magazine's movie of the year.
Ahem...

http://personalmoneystore.com/moneyblog/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/bernanke51-300x222.jpg

Sorry, just needed to point something out. :rofl:

[partofme]

I take it you've seen Jekyll, then? I'm thrilled that Moffat is taking over.

Actually I haven't. Is it any good?

[Margot]

Actually I haven't. Is it any good?

Very good. Very dark. James Nesbitt did brilliant job, and Moffat is a brilliant writer. I very much liked it.

[Zarquon]

Very good. Very dark. James Nesbitt did brilliant job, and Moffat is a brilliant writer. I very much liked it.
its gripping, but I just can't buy the premise.
watched the first few episodes on BBC Entertainment.

[justonemorevoice]

^TIME magazine's movie of the year.

it was awesome and i cried. i wont tell yall why cuz itd ruin it. just go see it. i also want the soundtrack. i love cajun music.

[Zarquon]

My Own Private Idaho (1992) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102494/)
Beautiful imagery/cinematography and good acting by River Phoenix, but very incoherent and unfocused, and though that arguably conveys the isolation/disorientation the protagonist feels, it mostly results in a narratively light film.

[Michael]

My Own Private Idaho (1992) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102494/)
Beautiful imagery/cinematography and good acting by River Phoenix, but very incoherent and unfocused, and though that arguably conveys the isolation/disorientation the protagonist feels, it mostly results in a narratively light film.
I really liked that film, though I particularly like Gus van Slant films. Pity about the short life of River Pheonix.

I must admit that the film was a bit uneven in places, and Keanu Reeves is annoying.

[cassandrabandra]

I really liked that film, though I particularly like Gus van Slant films. Pity about the short life of River Pheonix.

I must admit that the film was a bit uneven in places, and Keanu Reeves is annoying.

I loved that film. disjointed yes, but the subject matter was in any case.

I think KR has developed somewhat as an actor since then, but in that film I felt that he was probably the main disappointment. I didn't feel he was "real" in the role.

River Pheonix was brilliant - I think the first thing I saw him in was Stand by Me. He was an incredibly talented young actor.

[cassandrabandra]

I have been watching a BBC documentary on Sunday evenings - A history of Scotland. http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00fl78x

saw one episode earlier this year when it was first screened in Scotland. If you are interested in Scottish history, its worth a look, although the first series doesn't cover the Jacobites - only goes up to James.

oops - sorry not a movie! oh well!

[Evangeline]

OK I said this on the wrong thread. The last movie I saw was It's Complicated. It's very funny. It's as funny as The Hangover but you laugh only half as much. For The Hangover you laugh THE WHOLE MOVIE, for It's Complicated, just half - mostly during the Steve Martin scenes, of course!

I tried to see Avatar but it was sold out. Haven't seen it yet.

[Michael]

River Pheonix was brilliant - I think the first thing I saw him in was Stand by Me. He was an incredibly talented young actor.
Yes, he was a brilliant young actor with great potential. I saw him in several films - Stand By Me, Mosquito Coast, Jimmy Reardon and Sneakers come to mind, besides Idaho.

[partofme]

My wife and I watched District 9 and 500 Days of Summer last night. I liked the first one but she didn't and she really liked the second which I thought was good but not great.

[partofme]

OK I said this on the wrong thread. The last movie I saw was It's Complicated. It's very funny. It's as funny as The Hangover but you laugh only half as much. For The Hangover you laugh THE WHOLE MOVIE, for It's Complicated, just half - mostly during the Steve Martin scenes, of course!

I tried to see Avatar but it was sold out. Haven't seen it yet.

My wife and I rent comedies when we don't have the kids and are going to drink and other things. It was one of the funnier ones I have seen in a while.

Avatar really is a great for escape into another world.

[Zarquon]

The Duchess (2008) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0864761)
An engaging and heart-wrenching tale of love denied, with brilliant acting from the lead cast and appropriate pacing, costumes, a haunting score, and an intelligent screenplay to create a credible 18th century milieu and deliver a fine drama.

[Margot]

The Duchess (2008) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0864761)
An engaging and heart-wrenching tale of love denied, with brilliant acting from the lead cast and appropriate pacing, costumes, a haunting score, and an intelligent screenplay to create a credible 18th century milieu and deliver a fine drama.

Really? I thought it was pretty hollow. Struck me as just another period piece with a pretty face.

[Zarquon]

Really? I thought it was pretty hollow. Struck me as just another period piece with a pretty face.
Art is subjective.:cool:

[Michael]

Really? I thought it was pretty hollow. Struck me as just another period piece with a pretty face.
18th century Europe was a period notoriously dominated by shallow and corrupt aristocrats. Very much a fin de siecle moment for the aristocracy of Europe.

[Margot]

18th century Europe was a period notoriously dominated by shallow and corrupt aristocrats. Very much a fin de siecle moment for the aristocracy of Europe.

Yeah, but if you're trying to make a movie about the demoralizing affects of that society then at least put some thought into it, is all I'm saying. You can't show me a selfish whore and tell me to care about her- it just doesn't work. It didn't make me care about the protagonist at all. It was a shallow analysis of human nature in a shallow society.

In, of course, my most humble opinion.;)

[Zarquon]

Die Blechtrommel (1979) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0078875/) AKA-The Tin Drum
A bold, spectacular, riveting, provocative and superbly-crafted film with a somewhat confusing message(maybe there wasn't one or maybe its responding in kind to your circumstances)-which is the only letdown, besides the slightly slower and more ambiguous nature of the second half.

[Michael]

I thought the movie was even more boring than the book.

[Zarquon]

I thought the movie was even more boring than the book.
I saw the uncut German-language version with subtitles, which version did you see?
I can't grasp the movie as being boring though it could certainly be annoying; but opinions on entertainment don't merit debate imho, so whatever.

[Zarquon]

Away We Go (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1176740/)
cliched and boring with middling performances.

[Zarquon]

A Serious Man (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1019452/)
Shallow, uninspiring and misanthropic drivel, with wasted opportunities abound.

[The Drunk Guy]

Brothers (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0765010/) -- A stark look at the destructive nature of PTSD and how the wars are tearing families apart here at home. Fantastic job by Tobey Maguire. His rage gave me flashbacks to when my friends came home from Iraq. Scary stuff.

[Michael]

Syriana (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syriana)

Saw this movie last night. Or rather, saw the first half of the movie and then turned it off as a piece of boring crap.

Half the dialogue in the film consists of Arabs talking to Arabs with no subtitles. I didn't have a clue what was going on - and more importantly, I didn't care what was going on. Once they got to the graphic torture scene, that was too much and I turned it off.

I can't imagine how this film is considered anything but pure garbage. No plot, no acting, no characters just evil terrorist plots, explosions and graphic violence. Gosh.

And Matt Damon is a pathetic actor and seems entirely out of place in this film.

[partofme]

I recently signed up for Netflix so I've been watching several movies during the weekend when I'm home with the kids. Yesterday I watched Julia and thought it was really good but some of it could have been left out to make it not drag as much.

Julia (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0903627/)

[Margot]

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119668/)

Not a bad flick. I mean, you get the usual: two facial expressions from John Cusack, and Kevin Spacey has never done a bad thing in his life (ever.). It evens out nicely to one of those "I'm glad I watched it but once is enough" movies.

[Zarquon]

Glengarry Glen Ross (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104348/)
Fine in all aspects, particularly Al Pacino's performance, and quite a spectacle to watch in the light of the financial meltdown, but not really "great' or relatable.

[Americano]

Glengarry Glen Ross (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104348/)
Fine in all aspects, particularly Al Pacino's performance, and quite a spectacle to watch in the light of the financial meltdown, but not really "great' or relatable.

As you seem to be the forum's top movie watcher, may I ask what quality percentages are? Top, acceptable, bad and dog.

[SMadsen]

In the theater: Avatar (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0499549/) (of course)
On the telly: Shortbus (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0367027/) (terrorism for homophobes :) )

[Michael]

In the theater: Avatar (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0499549/) (of course)
On the telly: Shortbus (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0367027/) (terrorism for homophobes :) )

And what did you think of either one of them? Inquiring minds want to know! :D

[SMadsen]

And what did you think of either one of them? Inquiring minds want to know! :D
Avatar .. well, there's now an era before Avatar and an era after Avatar. Absolutely stunning work.

Shortbus is a funny little thing. Not unlike Hedwig and the Angry Inch. I liked it. Cameron Mitchell is a fine storyteller.

[Zarquon]

As you seem to be the forum's top movie watcher, may I ask what quality percentages are? Top, acceptable, bad and dog.
9-10 top, 7-8 good, 6 watch once and forget, 4-5 bad, <4 dog.
Zombieland (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1156398/)
Juvenile as expected, but not as engaging or funny as purported to be; main problem is the lack of chemistry between the central characters, and how stereotypical they are; especially Jesse Eisenberg's character who is a walking-talking marketing-dept. creation/profile.
5/10
Hu Die (2004) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0440939/)
Middling and boring.
4/10
The Chinese Botanist's Daughter (2006) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0425985/)
Sad but cliched(If you're Asian or familiar with repression) story of love denied, with adequate performances from the leads, but no depth.
6/10

[Zarquon]

Aimee & Jaguar(1999) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0130444/)
Engaging, with terrific performances, and an effective yet life-affirming pathos, though at times slow, especially in the middle.
7/10

[partofme]

I finally got around to watching The Wrestler. It was worth it but honestly I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would.

[The Drunk Guy]

I finally got around to watching The Wrestler. It was worth it but honestly I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would.
It's pretty depressing stuff, but it was done very well.

[Zarquon]

Fashion (2008) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0964516/)
Shallow and overlong, lacking any meaningful insight into the fashion industry, besides glib observations on how glib it is, and pretentiously moralistic, with middling performances and a contrived story that does not match its source material(Gia and others).
5/10

[Zarquon]

Caligula (1979) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080491/)
This film has far too many problems: its overlong(156 minutes!), it has mediocre acting, it has a surfeit of orgies and violence, a pathetic excuse of a story, and the filmmakers convey nothing meaningful besides depravity; the complete disregard for historical accuracy notwithstanding.
3/10
and this is probably why it sucked so bad:
Franco Rossellini (nephew of Roberto) and Vidal's original intent was to create a modestly budgeted historical drama. When the pair could not obtain financing, Vidal contacted media mogul (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Media_proprietor) and Penthouse founder and publisher Bob Guccione. Guccione agreed to finance the project on two conditions: that the film would be transformed into a flamboyant, luxurious spectacle akin to Hollywood (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hollywood)'s sword and sandal (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sword_and_sandal) epics of the 1950s and 1960s, and that extra sex and nudity would be added to the script in order to promote Guccione's magazine. Vidal and Rossellini agreed and the project was launched.

[Zarquon]

An Education (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1174732/)
Endearing and worth watching, but the story lacks any real conflict(especially in light of the ending which is rather predictable) or exceptional quality, besides some laudable acting by Carey Mulligan.
6/10

[The Drunk Guy]

Caligula (1979) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080491/)
This film has far too many problems: its overlong(156 minutes!), it has mediocre acting, it has a surfeit of orgies and violence, a pathetic excuse of a story, and the filmmakers convey nothing meaningful besides depravity; the complete disregard for historical accuracy notwithstanding.
3/10
and this is probably why it sucked so bad:
"orgies and violence" You just sold me! I'll watch it later tonight. :D

[Zarquon]

"orgies and violence" You just sold me! I'll watch it later tonight. :D
its too distanced and not at all intimate for it to be considered erotic; the sex scenes are there purely to shock rather than stimulate, though you might like it as I'm not you after all.

[Michael]

Caligula (1979) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080491/)
This film has far too many problems: its overlong(156 minutes!), it has mediocre acting, it has a surfeit of orgies and violence, a pathetic excuse of a story, and the filmmakers convey nothing meaningful besides depravity; the complete disregard for historical accuracy notwithstanding.
3/10
and this is probably why it sucked so bad:

Its not that bad! I think it is a rather colorful constume spectacle! :lol:

Admittedly, the film is rather lame, and while I do agree about the mediocre acting (from star-studded cast no less!), I'm not really aware of any lack of historical accuracy in the film - I'm normally quite critical of that element!

And the depiction of general depravity is indeed a valid and relevant political theme for the time period and the reign of Gaius Caligula in particular.

Impressive cast anyway: Peter O'Toole, John Geilgud, Malcolm McDowell and Helen Mirren who are all masterful actors.

[Zarquon]

I'm not really aware of any lack of historical accuracy in the film - I'm normally quite critical of that element!

Form IMDB:
Most of the characters are condensed versions of various different historical figures, many have their real roles in the story changed, and some characters' fates are vastly altered. For example, Nerva STARVED himself to death in 33 A.D. and Drusilla died long before Caligula even met Caesonia. Also, all of Caligula's previous marriages are never mentioned and most of the sets, costumes and props in no way represent real Roman architecture or culture; they are, in fact, surreal and fantastical interpretations of Pagan Rome.
and read this (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caligula_%28film%29) for humour.

[Zarquon]

Brothers(2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0765010/)
OK, even Tobey Maguire, but not particularly moving.
6/10
Affinity(2008) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1116182/)
Story was middling, subject matter was a bit boring, acting and setting were adequate.
6/10

[Zarquon]

Be With Me (2005) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0463903/)
7/10
Un amour de femme (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0386092/) (2001)
6/10
New York, I Love You (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0808399/) (2009)
5/10

[Michael]

Where do you dig up all these movie titles? I've never heard of even half the movies you are watching. :shrug:

[Zarquon]

Where do you dig up all these movie titles? I've never heard of even half the movies you are watching. :shrug:
I prefer dramas and festival fare to blockbusters, as they tend to be better; but not absolutely, only as a rule of thumb.
And New York, I Love You ,for instance, is hardly a festival or non-blockbuster movie; which is probably why it sucked so bad:lol:

[Michael]

I prefer dramas and festival fare to blockbusters, as they tend to be better; but not absolutely, only as a rule of thumb.
And New York, I Love You ,for instance, is hardly a festival or non-blockbuster movie; which is probably why it sucked so bad:lol:

Sure, but where do you find all these titles? I'm just curious.

[Zarquon]

Paris, je t'aime (2006) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0401711/)
Very uneven, with mostly mediocre and cliched segments except for a few memorable ones.
5/10

[Margot]

Cape Fear (1991) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_Fear_(1991_film))

Holy sweet baby Jesus. Such a disturbing movie. DeNiro made me want to crawl into a hole and die. I thought it was a good flick- but it definitely didn't make me feel good.

Now I want to see the original.

[Zarquon]

Agora (2009) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agora_%28film%29)
Faltering at times, but with a terrific though heavy-handed storyline. Also disappointing was the lack of major intellectual stimulation/debate and any ambiguity.
Made bearable by the message and Rachel Weisz.
6/10

[Americano]

Agora (2009) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agora_%28film%29)
Faltering at times, but with a terrific though heavy-handed storyline. Also disappointing was the lack of major intellectual stimulation/debate and any ambiguity.
Made bearable by the message and Rachel Weisz.
6/10

Are you keeping a running total on your ratings? It would interest me to see the percentages by rating of what you've watched.

My wife is eagerly awaiting Sunday's Academy Awards event. What the women attending are wearing to it is to her as important as the awards show itself.

[Michael]

... Also disappointing was the lack of major intellectual stimulation/debate ...
I suspect this is a pretty constant critique that applies to almost everything! :lol:

Speaking of which, is there any Denys Arcand films on your little list? Decline of the American Empire or Jesus of Montreal are both recommended. You actually may encounter some stimulation there. Not much, but a bit more than with most films. Love and Human Remains isn't quite as strong as his earlier work. I've not seen his newest stuff, just these three films.

http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000780/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denys_Arcand

[The Drunk Guy]

Cape Fear (1991) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_Fear_%281991_film%29)

Holy sweet baby Jesus. Such a disturbing movie. DeNiro made me want to crawl into a hole and die. I thought it was a good flick- but it definitely didn't make me feel good.

Now I want to see the original.
It's not as good. More of the classic 'Hitchcock' visuals than decent acting. Still, good movie for the era.

Sorry, but old movies are prone to terrible acting. Acting can make or break a movie, IMO, so those oldies aren't particularly good. There are few movies that are better than their remake. Two that come to mind are Planet of the Apes and Charade (remade as The Truth About Charlie).

[partofme]

It's not as good. More of the classic 'Hitchcock' visuals than decent acting. Still, good movie for the era.

Sorry, but old movies are prone to terrible acting. Acting can make or break a movie, IMO, so those oldies aren't particularly good. There are few movies that are better than their remake. Two that come to mind are Planet of the Apes and Charade (remade as The Truth About Charlie).

I feel the same way. It was on HBO recently and it really isn't as good as I remembered it.

[Zarquon]

Are you keeping a running total on your ratings? It would interest me to see the percentages by rating of what you've watched.

My wife is eagerly awaiting Sunday's Academy Awards event. What the women attending are wearing to it is to her as important as the awards show itself.
here (http://www.imdb.com/mymovies/list?l=21514597&s=uservote)
I've made watching the academy awards an annual ritual of sorts, mostly for the stand-up comedy and the main awards, and also because due to the time-difference I have to get up really early(which I like:shrug:).
So you can imagine how I absolutely loathed last year's song and dance bullshit by Hugh Jackman.:(
Am, for one, certainly glad that stand-up anchors[Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin will be hosting] are returning this year.

[Michael]

It's not as good. More of the classic 'Hitchcock' visuals than decent acting. Still, good movie for the era.

Sorry, but old movies are prone to terrible acting. Acting can make or break a movie, IMO, so those oldies aren't particularly good. There are few movies that are better than their remake. Two that come to mind are Planet of the Apes and Charade (remade as The Truth About Charlie).

I agree that in general, those older classic films - especially 1950s and 1960s stuff - have really cheesy acting! :lol:

[Michael]

here (http://www.imdb.com/mymovies/list?l=21514597&s=uservote)
:eek:
You panned Kate Blanchette as Elizabeth? She was magnificent, though I'll admit that the first film was better than the second, her acting was magnificent in the second.

And you don't like Harry Potter movies? You're just weird! Harry Potter rulz! :D

[The Drunk Guy]

here (http://www.imdb.com/mymovies/list?l=21514597&s=uservote)
I've made watching the academy awards an annual ritual of sorts, mostly for the stand-up comedy and the main awards, and also because due to the time-difference I have to get up really early(which I like:shrug:).
So you can imagine how I absolutely loathed last year's song and dance bullshit by Hugh Jackman.:(
Am, for one, certainly glad that stand-up anchors[Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin will be hosting] are returning this year.
Children of Men got the same ranking as Spiderman and Ironman? Not only was the acting brilliant and the story engaging, but the cinematography alone was absolutely spectacular. Not one, but two scenes of immense action carried out on one camera, no cuts. And the backdrops were so beautifully detailed and carried the story's 'flawed-yet-beautiful' message so well.

But to each his own. :popcorn:

[Zarquon]

:eek:
You panned Kate Blanchette as Elizabeth? She was magnificent, though I'll admit that the first film was better than the second, her acting was magnificent in the second.

And you don't like Harry Potter movies? You're just weird! Harry Potter rulz! :D
The books have more depth, I used to be a fanatical fan;).
And the second Elizabeth is rather lacking in scale and story, and merely one performance does not make a movie great overall.

[The Drunk Girl]

Milk (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1013753/)

Loved it!

[Michael]

Milk (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1013753/)

Loved it!
Agreed, an excellent film. Sean Penn is a remarkably good actor, even if he is a dick in real life. :lol:

[Zarquon]

Up
(http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1049413/)First half was evocative and awesome, later half was kitschy.
6/10

Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0929632/)
Inspiring tale of emancipation, but somehow not as uplifting or enlightening as I thought it would be.
7/10

[Donkey]

Sister Act.

Awesome/Awesome.

[Zarquon]

The Machinist (2004) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0361862/)
A provocative, riveting, and thrilling feature with a remarkable performance by Christian Bale.
7/10

[Zarquon]

Crazy Heart (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1263670/)
I expected it to be hard to relate to, given that its about a country music singer, but I related effortlessly, and that's largely due to a consummate performance by Jeff Bridges.
The music and supporting cast were fine, and the production values were high, though the story treads towards the predictable by the end and the pacing is a tad slow, but its still worthwhile due to the lead performance and the overall execution/presentation.
Overall, an accessible, convincing, and somewhat entertaining snapshot of a pivotal stage in a has-been musician's life and his redemption.
7/10

[Zarquon]

Every Thing You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask (1972) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0068555/)
Some parts are hilarious, some are lame, on the whole its funny but not as entertaining as it could have been.
7/10

The Men Who Stare at Goats (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1234548/)
Proves that its not enough to have good actors and hilarious situations, there needs to be a story and relatable characters as well.
5/10

[Michael]

Every Thing You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask (1972) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0068555/)
Some parts are hilarious, some are lame, on the whole its funny but not as entertaining as it could have been.
7/10
This one probably doesn't age well, but back in the 1970's this one was groundbreaking and brilliant.

Don't forget that up till the 1970's they wouldn't show a man and woman in the same bed (too risque). If you notice, most tv shows of that time showed the parent's bedroom with separate beds. Heck, in the 1960's you couldn't even show a pregnant woman on tv (Lucille Ball).

Besides, Woody in the sperm suit was priceless! :lol:

[Zarquon]

This one probably doesn't age well, but back in the 1970's this one was groundbreaking and brilliant.

Don't forget that up till the 1970's they wouldn't show a man and woman in the same bed (too risque). If you notice, most tv shows of that time showed the parent's bedroom with separate beds. Heck, in the 1960's you couldn't even show a pregnant woman on tv (Lucille Ball).

Besides, Woody in the sperm suit was priceless! :lol:
Midnight Cowboys (1969) had a homosexual blow-job(showing the initial bending and then only the receivers reactions) and graphic sex scenes (as flashbacks). Unless, you're talking about mainstream cinema.

[Michael]

Midnight Cowboys (1969) had a homosexual blow-job(showing the initial bending and then only the receivers reactions) and graphic sex scenes (as flashbacks). Unless, you're talking about mainstream cinema.

Swedish 'underground' films had legal kiddie-porn back in the 1960s. :shrug:

Of course I'm talking about 'mainstream' and specifically American. Though, India presently has similar 'morality' rules for entertainment as were widespread in the USA prior to the 1970's.

[Zarquon]

India presently has similar 'morality' rules for entertainment as were widespread in the USA prior to the 1970's.
they themselves call it censorship, no pretense on that front.

[Zarquon]

Waltz with Bashir (2008) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1185616/)
An inspired, provocative, and worthwhile "documentary"/movie with a harrowing and well-told story, though the language barrier and obscure topic prevent full comprehension and enjoyment.

[Greendruid]

The Men Who Stare at Goats (2009) (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1234548/)
Proves that its not enough to have good actors and hilarious situations, there needs to be a story and relatable characters as well.
5/10

Yeah, we saw this one two nights ago. The first copy didn't work in the first 5 minutes of the film. I went back into town for another copy and spent half an hour round-trip. It was probably not worth the second trip. The movie started out with a good premise but ended up just kind of dragging by the end and felt anti-climactic. Some funny lines though. And with goats in the title, how could I resist? Especially when the narrator claimed that the goats had been de-bleated - that was particularly funny but in an inside-joke kind of way for me. I agree with Zarquon's score here.

[Margot]

Midnight Cowboys (1969) had a homosexual blow-job(showing the initial bending and then only the receivers reactions) and graphic sex scenes (as flashbacks). Unless, you're talking about mainstream cinema.

Midnight Cowboy one of my favorite movies of all time. It's so fucking heartbreaking. Dustin Hoffman was just brilliant.

I'm sorry the only thing it's remembered for is for having been rated "X"

[The Drunk Girl]

We saw How to Train Your Dragon (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0892769/) in 3D a few days ago. It was a cute movie and worth the money seeing it at the theater.

It's the first animated film I have seen in 3D and it seems to fit better than with live action flicks. I think I actually might have gotten sea sick once from a scene zooming in on the Viking colony from out in the ocean. Pretty damn neat!

3D for animated movies in my opinion is the way to go from now on. Besides... if Toy Story 3 isn't in 3D I might have to kick someone's ass :lol:

[Zarquon]

Midnight Cowboy one of my favorite movies of all time. It's so fucking heartbreaking. Dustin Hoffman was just brilliant.

I'm sorry the only thing it's remembered for is for having been rated "X"
Its one of my favorite movies as well(not favorite per se but its on "my movies (http://www.imdb.com/mymovies/list?l=21514599)"), and its remembered for winning the 1970 Best Picture Oscar as well, alongwith Dustin Hoffman's "I'm walking here!".

[Michael]

I honestly can't think of a single film with Dustin Hoffman in it that I liked.

I just don't like the guy at all.

[The Drunk Guy]

I honestly can't think of a single film with Dustin Hoffman in it that I liked.

I just don't like the guy at all.
I loved him in I ♥ Huckabees. ;)

[Donkey]

Midnight Cowboys (1969) had a homosexual blow-job(showing the initial bending and then only the receivers reactions) and graphic sex scenes (as flashbacks). Unless, you're talking about mainstream cinema.
I remember a professor in a general humanities class (Ah, yes, community college), telling us the million billion "firsts" that Psycho had.

I literally can't comprehend some of the censorship rules back in the day.
I honestly can't think of a single film with Dustin Hoffman in it that I liked.

I just don't like the guy at all.
HOOK! Simply brilliant performance. One of those "kid" movies, that not only has PLENTY of stuff for adults to enjoy, but is really just all around quality.

Also Perfume! A bizarre, but gorgeous film.