American Hustle

American Hustle (David O. Russell, 2013)

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Rating: Q=8, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3

1978, AB SCAM, Crime, Sting, Complex Relationships

I thoroughly enjoyed the latest from David O. Russell. One thing is always true in his films: the acting shines. Bradley Cooper is phenomenal playing a character that I wanted to strangle half the movie... such an interesting role. Christian Bale and Amy Adams are wonderful, as usual, but Jennifer Lawrence is really fantastic as yet another bizarre and intriguing character.

I loved seeing 1978 through the clothes, style, and hair (so much crazy hair!). The soundtrack was awesome and fit the situations so perfectly. Russell knows that stories work best when there are layers of conflict and blurry lines. He did this tremendously well with Silver Linings Playbook last year. This one is no different--what really is a crime? What is a sin? The lines are very fuzzy in American Hustle just like they are in life.

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The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (Peter Jackson, 2013)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=4

Fantasy, Adventure, Action, Based on Book
 

I was so pleased with this second installment of The Hobbit. More narrative, more character development, more detail... I was particularly impressed with how the higher resolution and frame-rate made the film feel more intimate. At first I was jarred--it took me a while to get used to the movement of the camera--but soon it was like the characters and world was right outside a window.

Surprises came with an excellent performance by Luke Evans as Bard and more elements/characters of the Lord of the Rings stories to make a cohesive epic. This seems to be a trend in Hollywood. I think people want movies to be more like long TV show episodes. And why not? More time with a fantasy world. This one makes me pretty happy.
 

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The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games (Gary Ross, 2012)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3
 

Post-Apocalyptic, Science Fiction, Coming of Age, Survival, Corruption
 

I know, I know... it took me a long time to see this film which was completely my cup of tea. I loved the premise, the symbolism, the many narrative themes. I was immediately reminded of many other stories told about corrupt governments and poverty-stricken people, spying and manipulating systems-- but that's OK. This was also a story about children and how all of the above play out when personalities are still forming. I liked it a lot. And really great soundtrack, too.
 

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The Perks of Being a Wallflower

The Perks of Being a Wallflower (Stephen Chbosky, 2012)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Coming of Age, High School, Coping, Complex Relationships

This film had a nice balance of drama and comedy, light-heartedness and serious subject matter. Each character felt real and much of the time I was drawn back into my years as a teenager. It's amazing to me that no matter your particular situation, era, or group of friends, everyone seems to go through the same rites of passage, the same trials, scenes...growing up: it is the same but different.

I recommend this film to anyone who loves a good high school movie but especially to those who like a bit more substance, too. Oh, and great music!

 

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Yet Another Post Delay...

Sorry for not posting any reviews for almost two weeks--still not set up in my new house to watch films yet. I'm confident, though, that Thanksgiving week will see time to get back into my regular stream of movie-viewing. I'm been staring at the DVD cover of The Perks of Being a Wallflower forever, it seems. So look forward to that review first.

Happy Thanksgiving (soon)!

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Ender's Game

Ender's Game (Gavin Hood, 2013)

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Rating: Q=7, P=6 / Can't Get Enough

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Fantasy, Coming of Age, Future, War, Science Fiction

 

This is a film about HOW. How do I become successful? How can I succeed? How do I gain trust? How do I please my superiors? How do I win? Strategy is Ender's strongest skill and he learns throughout his training that the rules in life are bendable, changeable, and complex.

I loved this story because it is more "coming of age" than fantasy (but still definitely fantasy). Seeing as this film comes from the same director as Tsotsi (2006), I'm not surprised that it is an interesting study of masculinity, war, and fear. Ender is marvelously played by Asa Butterfield, who is quickly becoming one of the brightest new stars in Hollywood. I hope to see the story continued soon.

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Blue Velvet

Blue Velvet (David Lynch, 1986)

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Rating: Q=6, P=3 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=1

 

Thriller, Mystery, Crime, Drama, Surreal

 

In true David Lynch fashion, Blue Velvet startles, confuses, and offers a lot to think about. I watched "Twin Peaks" several years ago and fell in love with the weird and skewed way Lynch portrays our little human environments and how he comments on the darker side of our world. "It is a strange world," as Jeffrey says in this film. Lots of symbols--like bugs and ears and flames--kept the film student gears in me moving. I especially liked the way the whole film centered around a few songs from the 1950s. Great songs in creepy situations. Dennis Hopper's character is so creepy-- and the climactic scene is so memorable, like a horrific still photograph that Jeffrey just walks into. Anyway... if you like to be surprised, watch this.

 

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Adam, Creature Comforts, Not Without My Handbag, Wat's Pig

Adam, Creature Comforts, Not Without My Handbag, Wat's Pig (Aardman Animations, 1989-1993)

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Rating: Q=5, P=4 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=2

Animated, Shorts, Stop-Motion, Silly, Whimsical

 

I so love stop-motion animation and these early shorts by Aardman Animations were fun to watch. Nothing totally amazed me--I especially liked "Wat's Pig" as a newer take on the Prince and the Pauper storyline. If you need a diversion and just want to be entertained, you can't go wrong with these.

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Hiatus Extension

My hiatus has been extended a bit since things are taking longer with my move than expected. Look for posts again starting next week (hopefully) or early November!

One Month Hiatus

A Moving Story Scope will be on hiatus from September 26 through October 17 since I am moving into my first house! I'll likely start blogging again once everything is in place. Look forward to a few thrillers just in time for Halloween:

Purple Noon


Cape Fear


Blue Velvet

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I've Loved You So Long

I've Loved You So Long (Mike Leigh, 2008)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Sisters, Coping, Grief, Complex Relationships, Adjustment

An understated beauty. Kristin Scott Thomas is remarkable in her portrayal of a grieving woman so tormented with guilt and loss that she does not feel she deserves happiness or love. A very important film about love, patience, and acceptance.

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Kon-Tiki

Kon-Tiki (Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg, 2012)

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Rating: Q=8, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3

Exploration, Anthropology, Survival, Pioneers, Sailing

So inspiring. I watched this film and barely moved the whole time. Thor Heyerdahl was a legendary explorer, yes, but what made him especially great was his determination and strength of character. Kon-Tiki revisits the incredible journey he and his friends/crew made across the Pacific. The moments of doubt, the sights and sounds, the will-power, the patience, and trust. Great film.

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The House

The House (Joo-Young Ban, 2010)

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Rating: Q=5, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Animation, Korean, Economy, Class, Spirits, Philosophical

An interesting film with some important messages. I've always believed that there is an essence to every place- every bit of land, every building, every home. It is a real shame when we take place for granted. I hope to live to see the US culture really building things to last and taking pride in preservation again.

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The Gruffalo

The Gruffalo (Max Lang and Jakob Schuh, 2009)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3

 

Animation, Based on Book, Children's, Fable, Nature

ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS! What a fantastic animated short. Beautiful style and color, cute and quirky characters, great voice over... Rob Bryden's voice as a fox? John Hurt's as an owl? Robbie Coltrane's as a giant mythical monster? I can't ask for better. And the story has a wonderful message to children, I'm sure true to the book. Watch this!

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Blue Jasmine

Blue Jasmine (Woody Allen, 2013)

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Rating: Q=7, P=5 / Can't Get Enough

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2
 

Drama, Strong Dialogue, Complex Relationships, Identity, Class, Reputation
 

Another impressive film from my favorite director. This time Woody takes on San Francisco (and New York) and shows us the story of woman who crumbles without her carefully manicured facade. It is a facade that was built on reputation, class, and lies. Without the facade, who is she? How does she rebuild? Jasmine is forced to accept that she has no skills, no experience, no happiness. She doesn't belong and won't allow herself to. What she is good at is pretending. An absolutely amazing performance by Cate Blancett--can she get any more incredible? I found myself hating her character because Jasmine has carved such a deep hole out of her life that it makes you pity her. And with all the pill-popping and vodka swilling, she has no idea what reality is anymore. Maybe she never did.

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Amour

Amour (Michael Haneke, 2012)

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Rating: Q=8, P=3 / Rubs Me The Wrong Way

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=1

Death, Grief, Aging, Illness, Love

This film was beautiful, raw, difficult to watch, silent and so very real. I found myself turning away from the screen many times because so many scenes reminded me of the troubling years when my grandmother struggled to understand anything in her environment. Stroke and dementia are common and so I'm sure this film touched many viewers. I assure you the low P rating comes only from the fact that the film is so tough to handle. That doesn't mean we should avoid watching.

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TV series: Midsomer Murders Season 1 & Heat of the Sun

Midsomer Murders (Caroline Graham, 1997-present)

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Rating: DSQ=9, SP=7 / Sweet Treat

Scale A=3, Scale B=3, Scale C=3, Scale D=3, Scale E=4

Mystery, TV Series, Detective, Crime, Suspense

I can't believe it took me so long to start watching this series. On the air for 13 seasons? It's no wonder that the show has been on the air for 13 seasons. It's a delight to watch the competent and somewhat funny Inspector Barnaby as he investigates interesting and quirky characters in deceivingly quiet villages. My favorite episode from the first season is The Killings at Badger's Drift--what a way to start.

Heat of the Sun, Mini-Series (BBC, 1998)

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Rating: DSQ=10, SP=7 / Decadence

Scale A=4, Scale B=3, Scale C=3, Scale D=3, Scale E=4

 

Mystery, TV Series, 1930s, Africa, Detective, Crime

I loved this mini-series when I first watched it on PBS many years ago, quite possibly when it was new. Wonderful scenery of Kenya, beautiful costume design bringing the audience back to the era between the great wars. Each mystery is complex and Inspector Tyburn does his best to uphold truth and justice in a land that is foreign to him. Hide in Plain Sight is my favorite two-part story.
 

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Busting Out & This Film is Not Yet Rated

Busting Out (Laurel Spellman and Francine Strickwerda, 2004)

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Rating: DOCQ=4, DOCP=3 / It's All Scribbly To Me

Scale K=2, Scale L=2, Scale M=2, Scale N=1
 

Breasts, Cancer, Culture, Psychology, Sexuality
 

I wasn't amazed by this short documentary but it was a nice re-visiting to the decades old discussion of why our culture is so breast-obsessed. Some moving conversations from cancer survivors but overall the film is a little lacking in anything new.

This Film is Not Yet Rated (Kirby Dick, 2006)

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Rating: DOCQ=5, DOCP=5 / Quite Legible

Scale K=2, Scale L=3, Scale M=3, Scale N=2
 

Censorship, Film Rating, MPAA, Investigation
 

What a fun investigative film! Right away I was hooked--I've never understood our terrible, clunky film rating system. And -yes, you guessed it- now I want to create my own rating system. Look for that in the near future.

Kirby Dick does a wonderful job finding out about the secretive and strangely uncooperative MPAA. He also includes great commentary from filmmakers and writers about their experiences with having films rated and those ratings not explained. Eye-opening.
 

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Unforgiven

Unforgiven (Clint Eastwood, 1992)
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Rating: Q=7, P=4 / Can't Get Enough

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=1

 

Western, Good vs. Evil, Masculinity, Redemption, Myth

It is amazingly difficult to write such a simple narrative about such familiar issues and characters. Clint Eastwood's elegy to the western is moving, disturbing, and intricate. I found myself intrigued, as I usually am, with the complex male characters who struggle with reputation. Reputation is everything to men in the western genre. What does it mean to be true to yourself? And what if your true nature is cold-hearted and ruthless? Better to ride out into the storm with your guns blazing and the folks telling your story for decades to come than to have your image kicked and bloodied in a jail cell. Far worse to be a living sham than a dead legend. As the late Roger Ebert wrote in his spot on review, "deserve has everything to do with it."
 

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Tales of the Night

Tales of the Night (Michel Ocelot, 2011)

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Rating: Q=7, P=5 / Can't Get Enough

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Animation, Fairy Tale, Vivid, Visual, Folklore

What a treat! Michel Ocelot never fails to amaze me with his remarkable animation styles. This film is a series of folktales from the Caribbean, Africa, South America, Europe, Tibet, etc. Each one has a moral and is presented in fantastic visual style. Great for lovers of animation and folklore. Also great for kids!

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TV series: Are You Being Served? Season 1 & 2

Are You Being Served? Seasons 1 & 2 (David Croft & Jeremy Lloyd, 1972-1985)

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Rating: CSS=8, CSQ=6 / The Guffaws

Scale F=3, Scale G=2, Scale H=3, Scale I=3, Scale J=3

British Comedy, Witty, Situation Comedy, Workplace, Satire

Such a great and timeless comedy. I remember watching this show when I was little and not understanding anything of the subtle jokes, play on words, wit and wackiness. Rewatching now has been a delight. Nothing compares to the satire of workplace rules and regulations, class and rank, and political correctness. The early seasons are fun to watch as the characters are still developing and winning you over with their own quirks.

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History of the World Part I

History of the World Part I (Mel Brooks, 1981)

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Rating: Q=4, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

 

Comedy, Sketch, Wacky/Silly, History, Spoof

Another film I can now say I've watched from start to finish. I've always had a soft-spot for Mel Brooks and his in-your-face humor. This is definitely not my favorite of his movies (Blazing Saddles and The Producers are much more my thing) but it has its moments-- the section on The Roman Empire is ridiculous, especially Madeline Kahn's performance. And how can you not love the French Revolution piss boy routine?

 

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Ken Burns: Prohibition

Prohibition (Ken Burns and Lynn Novak, 2011)

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Rating: DOCQ=7, DOCP=4 / Honors

Scale K=3, Scale L=4, Scale M=2, Scale N=2

 

Documentary, Prohibition Era, History, Alcohol, Politics, Gangsters, Crime, Jazz Age
 

I learned a lot more about the USA from this recent Ken Burns production. Three episodes chronicle everything about the 18th Amendment, from the reasons for its creation to its imminent repeal. I'm surprised at how little I knew about Prohibition--more should be taught in high school History classes, in my opinion. Interesting discussions of what can and cannot be controlled by a government, what can happen when you restrict, how good intentions can create terrible problems, etc.

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Good Will Hunting

Good Will Hunting (Gus Van Sant, 1997)

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Rating: Q=6, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3
 

Coming of Age, Complex Relationships, Genius, Philosophical, Class
 

I'm not sure why it took me so long to watch this movie in its entirety. Damon and Affleck wrote a stellar script that still works over 10 years later. The story is nothing new but it is presented in a very effective and beautiful way. How do you conquer your fears? How do you cope with your talents or abilities? And, as Robin Williams' wise character asks, "What do you want to do?" It's a very simple question that so many of us can't answer... A film every young adult should watch.
 

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No (Pablo Larrain, 2012)

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Rating: Q=5, P=6 / Average OJ

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 5=3

Chile, Revolution, Politics, Advertising Campaign

A very interesting film that was completely unlike what I was expecting. Larrain's film feels like a documentary--actually, more like a home video. Larrain includes many emotional film clips of riots, policing, and news footage from 1988 which makes it feel like we were back in the 1980s in every way. The clothing, styles, media, even the colors gave exactly the right vibe. Gael Garcia Bernal gives a wonderful performance of a man deeply frustrated in (and worn out by) the dictatorship he lives in but also deeply afraid of how the militant government will react to his revolutionary words and visuals. No makes you think about how we use media today, and not just politically.

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It's July... I've gone to Canada

A Moving Story Scope is on vacation from July 8 until July 18. It's July... I've gone to Canada

Look forward to these posts when I return:

 

No

The Constant Gardener
Ken Burns: Prohibition

<-- I get to go here!

Seducing Doctor Lewis

Seducing Doctor Lewis (Jean-Francois Pouliot, 2003)

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Rating: Q=5, P=4 / Average OJ

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=2

Quebec, Rural Small Town, Working Class, Comedy, Subtle

It's hard to make a living in a tiny fishing village in the Canadian North. Jobs are practically non-existent unless you move away to the fast-paced city. Raise money (and, in this case, seduce a doctor) is the only way to keep the community alive. There are many films with this same premise--The Full Monty springs to mind-- but this film offers a different locale and flavor of humor. Nice and refreshing. 

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Call the Midwife Season 1

Call the Midwife Season 1 (Heidi Thomas, 2012)

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Rating: DSQ=11, SP=8 / Decadence

Scale A=3, Scale B=4, Scale C=4, Scale D=4, Scale E=4

1950s, London, Midwifery, Period, Coming of Age, Complex Relationships 

This new BBC series is fantastic in so many ways--the concept hasn't been done before, the characters are strong and fun, the humor is subtle, the soundtrack is diverse, the artistry is beautiful... I can't wait for the next season to find out what happens in the lives of these brilliant young women and their admirable profession. Each women is unique and quirky in her own way and together they make a charming team.
 

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The Skin I Live In

The Skin I Live In (Pedro Almodovar, 2012)

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Rating: Q=7, P=6 / Can't Get Enough

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=3

Mystery, Complex Relationships, Sexuality, Grief, Mad Scientist

Wow. Almodovar never fails to amaze me. This film is absolutely disturbing and fascinating at the same time. Plot twists, editing, and narrative themes that are mesmerizing. The Skin I Live In is one of those films that you can't stop watching (although it's difficult to watch at times) and also stays with you for days. Antonio Banderas is a quiet and deliberate villain, Jan Cornet and Elena Anaya play their complicated roles to perfection.

Grief is a strange thing to experience--we all cope in different ways, sometimes the way cannot be understood by anyone else. I don't want to give anything away, but Almodovar delves into a level of grief that will make you really think about your life and identity, about how all your actions have consequences, and the importance of hope and determination. Magnificent film.

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Slightly Late May Challenge: The African Queen & The Freshman

The African Queen (John Huston, 1951)

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Rating: Q=4, P=3 / Thanks But No Thanks

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=1

WWI, Africa, Boating, Romance, Philosophical

I finally watched this film--I had been putting it off and putting it off because I didn't think I'd really enjoy it based on all the things I read and already knew about the story. Well, I didn't really like it that much but I can't deny it is a classic film that will live on. Everything in this film feels false and a bit contrived--the acting is good but not moving, the effects are rough, the plot is unsurprising, the romance is expected... the interplay between Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn is the most interesting part but it isn't that interesting.


The Freshman (Fred C. Newmeyer and Sam Taylor, 1925)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Silent, College, Coming of Age, Comedy, Romance

This is a wonderful, timeless, and fascinating silent film gem from 1924. Harold Lloyd dishes out his usual silly and sweet comedy persona. I love how these early films show the culture through the little things--fashion, slang, jokes, social norms, etc. And while I didn't laugh uproariously, I still laughed and smiled through the whole film. A wonderful story that still holds up in a digital age...at least in my opinion.
 

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The Kid Brother

The Kid Brother (Ted Wilde and J.A. Howe, 1927)

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Rating: Q=5, SP=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

 

Silent, Western, Romance, Coming of Age, Honor, Mystery

 

Every once and awhile, I enjoy watching silent films. I had never watched a Harold Lloyd film from start to finish, so this was fun. The Kid Brother is humorous, has great timing, and familiar plot devices but with little twists of slapstick and silliness thrown in. The remastering and new background score is very good and fits the era.

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Slightly Late May Challenge: Mutiny on the Bounty

Mutiny on the Bounty (Frank Lloyd, 1935)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

18th Century, Sailing, Mutiny, Honor, Pride, Exploration

I liked this film more than I thought I would--I try not to have any expectations but that is hard to do when a film is so renowned and talked about. Clark Gable is wonderful in his portrayal of the moral and good-hearted Fletcher Christian. Also a very creepy and inspiring performance by Charles Laughton as the notorious Captain Bligh.

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Star Trek Into Darkness

Star Trek Into Darkness (J. J. Abrams, 2013)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Star Trek, Science Fiction, Based on TV series, Action

Oh, how I love a good science fiction romp through imagined worlds and futures. The last Star Trek film in this new series didn't do anything for me, really, but this one was different. A fun, fast-paced, and entertaining film that will dlight most viewers-- even those who have never watched a single TV episode. Maybe especially those folks. I heard there were some plot devices that were disagreeable to die-hard Trekkies, but so be it. Go watch this with an open mind. And get all enamoured with Benedict Cumberbatch as he steals the show. He's so awesome as a villain. 

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May Challenge: The Bridge on the River Kwai

The Bridge on the River Kwai (David Lean, 1957)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

WWII, Prisoners of War, Pride, Honor, Morality, Duty

It's hard not to feel nervous at some point while watching this film. An amazing story of how and why war can do strange things to people. I found myself feeling mixed up--Who am I with? Who am I against? I found it hard not to be challenged. Sometimes right and wrong are not so clear and even the best intentions can go horribly awry. A true classic with timeless performances from William Holden and Alec Guinness.

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May Challenge: The Best Years of Our Lives

The Best Years of Our Lives (William Wyler, 1946)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=4, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3

WWII, Veterans, Homecoming, Adjustment, PTSD, Complex Relationships

Why have I waited so long to see this?! A new favorite classic for me. Everything about this film is great--the narrative threads, long shots, the acting, the music... It is so important that we tell the veterans' story in a simple way. And even though The Best Years of Our Lives was about WWII--released just after the war ended, in fact--it still holds up today, showing the same kinds of problems veterans face now. There are beautiful moments (yes, I cried a few times) and everyone ends up happy, which isn't necessarily reality, but it is exactly what the film should do. Plus it has Hoagy Carmichael. How can you not watch a film that has Hoagy Carmichael! :)

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The Great Gatsby

The Great Gatsby (Baz Luhrmann, 2013)

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Rating: Q=7, P=7 / Obsession

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=4, Scale 4=3

 

Based on book, 1920s, Decadence, Romance, Class, Pride, Philosophical

Bright, glittery, magnetic, fantasy. This film is completely delicious. Luhrmann outdid himself, as we all expected, and all that decadence works. I was surprised by how Gatsby could be a true escape film- it is wonderfully fantastic but still anchored by the book and by the present. This is a good film but, in my opinion, a really great adaptation. Adaptation is a fine art that can go horribly wrong (almost as wrong as a bad music cover). Often both entities become tarnished. But done right and everything shines. Something magical happens on screen, when you return to the page, and in the audience.

Many critics hated the film but I disagree with all of them. Click here to read one I totally agree with.
 

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May Challenge: Ben-Hur

Ben-Hur (William Wyler, 1959)

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Rating: Q=5, P=3 / Thanks But No Thanks

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=1

 

Honor, Loyalty, Roman Empire, Christ, Morality

 

This is a true epic of... epic proportions. So many grand meanings, dramatic scenes, intense dialogues, and conflict. Some parts of the film feel long, other parts are gripping. I especially enjoy the conversations between Judah and Messala. This relationship is the anchor of the story--the good, bad, and turmoil in all of us. Ben-Hur is richly colored and looks and feels very much a part of the 1950s. The acting, while occassionally forced, is mostly good and somehow fits the period portrayed and the timeless story. I will not watch the chariot race sequence again... true agony, but for some reason I could not turn my eyes from the screen.

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May Challenge: An American in Paris

An American in Paris (Vincente Minnelli, 1951)

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Rating: Q=6, P=5 / Average OJ

Scale 1=4, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=2

Musical, Romance, Uplifting, Art

It is weird to think that I hadn't seen the entirety of this classic until now. I love all the songs (Gershwin fan) and dance sequences, love the actors, love the groundbreaking finale. A feel-good romp!

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Les Miserables

Les Miserables (Tom Hooper, 2012)

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Rating: Q=6, P=4 / Average OJ

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=3, Scale 4=1

Musical, French Revolution, Honor, Justice, Pride, Struggle, Sacrifice

This film in one word=feat. What an amazing feat to create the landscape and emotion of the time but also remain truly timeless. It is no wonder that so many people love this musical and are captivated by its sheer epic qualities. While the first half moved smoothly and kept my attention, the second part became a bit stretched and less gripping--that is, until the end sequences. This is probably due to my own attention span with musicals: longer than 2 hours makes me fairly restless.

Wonderful performances from the entire cast. I especially liked Enjolras played by Aaron Tveit.

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May Challenge: Shane; Blow Up

Shane (George Stevens, 1953)

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Rating: Q=4, P=4 / Average OJ

Scale 1=2, Scale 2=2, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=2

Western, Father/Son, Frontier, Action

Oh, Westerns. I love the comfy-ness and goodness of each story and relationship. Shane is a feel-good film about redemption, honor, pride, and all those other great noble dealings. I loved watching the relationship between Shane and little Joey. More films with curious and intelligent kids need to be made!

Blow Up (Michelangelo Antonioni, 1966)

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Rating: Q=6, P=3 / Thanks But No Thanks

Scale 1=3, Scale 2=3, Scale 3=2, Scale 4=1

 

Cult, Mystery, Art, Real vs. Unreal, Psychological, Intellectual

This film is way more than meets the eye and way more than anyone could write about. Antonioni created something quite powerful and intriguing, abstract and dream-like. It is hard for me to really like films of the "new wave" persuasion but I appreciate the layers of meaning and depth of artistry. Another viewing is in order but it might be a while...

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May Challenge - 8 Classic Films I Still Haven't Seen

As you all know, I'm a huge fan of lists and film challenges. Several years ago, AFI came up with a list of 100 Years, 100 Movies. I, naturally, made it a goal to see them all eventually. I'm still working on the list and decided to designate May as my month for some classic film watching. Here's what I'm planning...though I have seen parts of most of these, never the entire film. Once I see it, as usual, I will post my impressions!

Mutiny on the Bounty (1935)


The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)


The African Queen (1951)


An American in Paris (1951)


Shane (1953)


The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)


The Defiant Ones (1958)


Ben-Hur (1959)