Genre: Action/Comedy
Director: Roger Spottiswoode
Screenplay: John Eskow and Richard Rush, adapted from the novel by Christopher Robbins
Starring: Mel Gibson and Robert Downey Jr.
In the midst of war, Vietnam troops began to infiltrate the country of Laos in the late Sixties. The American government secretly provided aid to the many citizens of Laos using civilian pilots to air drop supplies with the help of the Laotian military, dubbing the operation, Air America. New recruit, Billy, gets thrown into a world of danger, secrets, and drunken hijinks as he gets used to flying the rough terrain of the country. Gene, a vet of the company, volunteers to break Billy in and show him the ropes and a little fun. The fun and adventure soon take a forbidding turn as secrets about the use and funding of Air America begin surface.
It is a movie such as this when I truly miss the Eighties and Nineties. This film is proof that Mel Gibson was not always crazy, but in fact loved and admired. This can also be said about Tom Cruise. I think many of us can also look back upon the movie, Legend, and at least remember some of it fondly. The main point is that there is a reason that these actors are so popular, and it is because they have talent and charm. Regardless of how they seem to use their talent nowadays, we loved them during these decades because of their acting abilities and good looks.
The main reason this film was watched was indeed for Mel Gibson. He was the shining action star of the time, the guys’ guy, but his charm and good looks also brought many female viewers. Oddly enough, I remember my parents taking my brother and me to this movie when I was six. Shocking, I know. That is what I told my mother when I picked it up in the cheap bin. I literally have not seen this film since I was six, so this was really the first time. It was the typical action and comedy that I expected. A bit predictable, but the movie was not looking for Oscar nods. It is an entertainment movie with Mel Gibson, acting his usual typecast character of the Eighties.
An added bonus is Mr. Robert Downey Jr. I am personally glad that he chose acting over drugs, not to say that his performance in this film was glowing. His potential was present, yet he was still honing his craft at this time. There was still the subtle sarcasm with this character that Downey is known for playing well. He was by no means the hilarious Tony Stark and Sherlock Holmes, but I still found him charming and good looking, which should be a plus in anyone’s book.
I give this film 2 Buttery Kernels.
Coming Soon: The Back-Up Plan
Adventures in Babysitting
Monday, August 23, 2010
Genre: Comedy
Director: Chris Columbus
Screenplay: David Simkins
Starring: Elizabeth Shoe, Keith Coogan, Anthony Rapp, Penelope Ann Miller, and Maia Brewton
After her boyfriend cancels their date, Chris has nothing better to do, but babysit. Expecting a relaxing if not annoying at times night, Chris finds herself thrown into one mess after another. Hilarity and danger ensue as she and the kids brave downtown Chicago at night. Chris’s only goal is getting everyone back to the house and safe before the parents get home.
This is officially my first review of an Eighties film. For those who know me, I have a slight problem when it comes to this decade. I am a bit obsessed. Eighties film tend to be more story driven, because visual technology was not as strong to help the films. This is why I respect them a bit more. Sure there were fabulous displays of acting in Eighties, but with most films of the decade it didn’t seem to be a requirement. The Eighties mostly wanted to entertain you with whatever your poison was, and that they did.
For a film that was a favorite when I was young, it is still a favorite now. It is a bit hokey or campy at times, but most films from this decade were, which where I think those words actually came from. This movie is just fun for everyone. The story is entertaining, but not the best ever written. You can’t help but laugh along with the antics. The Mighty Thor probably got one of his first major advertisements with this film. I remember personally wanting a helmet like the girl’s in this film when I was younger. The film is certainly not going to change your life by any means, but it should make you laugh at something, whether it’s the story or the decade itself.
This was probably Elizabeth Shue’s first lead role. Her talent as an actress is apparent in this film, but it was still growing. She had not yet achieved the level that would eventually lead to an Oscar nomination, but she was still believable here. The actors that play the kids that Elizabeth Shue’s character is babysitting have been in other things here and there throughout the Eighties and beyond, the more famous being Anthony Rapp. He is probably best known for his role in the musical, Rent. The only thing I usually thought of when he would be on screen was Ron Weasley. Terrible? Yes. But, I couldn’t help myself.
Every actor has to start somewhere, and most of our favorite leading actors of today started in these movies. This film has the added bonus of seeing some of those young actors. Not only do we get to see Elizabeth Shue when she was younger, we get to see Penelope Ann Miller, Bradley Whitford, and a very blond Vincent D’Onofrio.
I give this film 3 Buttery Kernels.
Coming Soon: Air America
Director: Chris Columbus
Screenplay: David Simkins
Starring: Elizabeth Shoe, Keith Coogan, Anthony Rapp, Penelope Ann Miller, and Maia Brewton
After her boyfriend cancels their date, Chris has nothing better to do, but babysit. Expecting a relaxing if not annoying at times night, Chris finds herself thrown into one mess after another. Hilarity and danger ensue as she and the kids brave downtown Chicago at night. Chris’s only goal is getting everyone back to the house and safe before the parents get home.
This is officially my first review of an Eighties film. For those who know me, I have a slight problem when it comes to this decade. I am a bit obsessed. Eighties film tend to be more story driven, because visual technology was not as strong to help the films. This is why I respect them a bit more. Sure there were fabulous displays of acting in Eighties, but with most films of the decade it didn’t seem to be a requirement. The Eighties mostly wanted to entertain you with whatever your poison was, and that they did.
For a film that was a favorite when I was young, it is still a favorite now. It is a bit hokey or campy at times, but most films from this decade were, which where I think those words actually came from. This movie is just fun for everyone. The story is entertaining, but not the best ever written. You can’t help but laugh along with the antics. The Mighty Thor probably got one of his first major advertisements with this film. I remember personally wanting a helmet like the girl’s in this film when I was younger. The film is certainly not going to change your life by any means, but it should make you laugh at something, whether it’s the story or the decade itself.
This was probably Elizabeth Shue’s first lead role. Her talent as an actress is apparent in this film, but it was still growing. She had not yet achieved the level that would eventually lead to an Oscar nomination, but she was still believable here. The actors that play the kids that Elizabeth Shue’s character is babysitting have been in other things here and there throughout the Eighties and beyond, the more famous being Anthony Rapp. He is probably best known for his role in the musical, Rent. The only thing I usually thought of when he would be on screen was Ron Weasley. Terrible? Yes. But, I couldn’t help myself.
Every actor has to start somewhere, and most of our favorite leading actors of today started in these movies. This film has the added bonus of seeing some of those young actors. Not only do we get to see Elizabeth Shue when she was younger, we get to see Penelope Ann Miller, Bradley Whitford, and a very blond Vincent D’Onofrio.
I give this film 3 Buttery Kernels.
Coming Soon: Air America
Across The Universe
Genre: Musical/Drama
Director: Julie Taymor
Screenplay: Dick Clemet and Ian La Frenais
Starring: Evan Rachel Wood, Jim Sturgess, and Joe Anderson
This is the story of Jude, a young Englishman, who is finally able to go to America to search for the father he has never met. The New World, broken by war, opens up opportunities of friendship and love. Using the music of The Beatles to propel the story, Jude finds a inspiration and himself.
This is an artistic film. It has a strong story line as it follows the lead character, Jude, and his friends, but the film reflects a painting with colorful and imaginative scenes that interpret the music it follows. This film would probably be more enjoyable if you are indeed a Beatles and art film fan. It is possible that you could still appreciate the beautiful cinematography and story without knowing of or liking The Beatles music, but it is the main draw to this film. It also follows the main elements of a musical with singing and dancing, which I felt were stunningly choreographed. The actors even provided their own vocals, which I feel is always a plus and adds another layer of respect to the actor. The main feature is still the art of the film, not the story. This is what the film was intended to be seen for, and that may not be of interest for some. As an art and Beatles lover, myself, I really enjoyed this movie.
The actors are not exactly well known just yet, the most famous probably being Evan Rachel Wood. Best known for her role in Thirteen, she seems to be selective about her roles, sticking mostly to independent films. She is a growing talent who has the potential of being a great and respective actress of her generation. Her work in this film does not disappoint either. Most of the characters she has played have always seem to be driven by some kind of edge or hardship. Though her character, Lucy, has some hardship, this does not propel her character. The hardship in this film was simply the way of life for most Americans during this time. In fact, this is probably one of the more normal roles she’s played so far with the added touch of a very sweet and pleasant voice.
Both Jim Sturgess and Joe Anderson, being British, have had sporadic roles here and there. This is probably their most distinguished film. The both carried their large roles well. I had hoped that we may have seen more of both of them as a result from this film, but their roles still seem to be varied as of late.
I give this film 3 Buttery Kernels.
Coming Soon: Adventures In Babysitting
Director: Julie Taymor
Screenplay: Dick Clemet and Ian La Frenais
Starring: Evan Rachel Wood, Jim Sturgess, and Joe Anderson
This is the story of Jude, a young Englishman, who is finally able to go to America to search for the father he has never met. The New World, broken by war, opens up opportunities of friendship and love. Using the music of The Beatles to propel the story, Jude finds a inspiration and himself.
This is an artistic film. It has a strong story line as it follows the lead character, Jude, and his friends, but the film reflects a painting with colorful and imaginative scenes that interpret the music it follows. This film would probably be more enjoyable if you are indeed a Beatles and art film fan. It is possible that you could still appreciate the beautiful cinematography and story without knowing of or liking The Beatles music, but it is the main draw to this film. It also follows the main elements of a musical with singing and dancing, which I felt were stunningly choreographed. The actors even provided their own vocals, which I feel is always a plus and adds another layer of respect to the actor. The main feature is still the art of the film, not the story. This is what the film was intended to be seen for, and that may not be of interest for some. As an art and Beatles lover, myself, I really enjoyed this movie.
The actors are not exactly well known just yet, the most famous probably being Evan Rachel Wood. Best known for her role in Thirteen, she seems to be selective about her roles, sticking mostly to independent films. She is a growing talent who has the potential of being a great and respective actress of her generation. Her work in this film does not disappoint either. Most of the characters she has played have always seem to be driven by some kind of edge or hardship. Though her character, Lucy, has some hardship, this does not propel her character. The hardship in this film was simply the way of life for most Americans during this time. In fact, this is probably one of the more normal roles she’s played so far with the added touch of a very sweet and pleasant voice.
Both Jim Sturgess and Joe Anderson, being British, have had sporadic roles here and there. This is probably their most distinguished film. The both carried their large roles well. I had hoped that we may have seen more of both of them as a result from this film, but their roles still seem to be varied as of late.
I give this film 3 Buttery Kernels.
Coming Soon: Adventures In Babysitting
The Accidental Husband
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Director: Griffin Dunne
Screenplay: Mimi Hare, Clare Naylor, Bonnie Sikowitz
Starring: Uma Thurman, Colin Firth, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan
Dr. Emma Lloyd is a popular and well-respected love guru with her own radio talk show. For Patrick Sullivan, she is the woman that ruined his life after she gave advice to his fiancé to call off the wedding. Knowing that the good doctor herself will be getting hitched soon, Patrick decides to get a little payback by hacking into state records and making her married to him. The comedy proceeds as Emma tries to sort out the mistake and still keep her wedding together. The marriage mistake seems to take a backseat to her new problem, her growing attraction to Patrick. Who will she choose?
I personally purchased this, because I had yet to see it and enjoy Colin Firth. Now I wish my logic of not buying it at full price won out my carefree whim. It’s not great, but it’s not terrible. This is a standard chick flick. It’s so standard that I’m a little surprised that it was not an original Lifetime movie, yet I still would have seen it, if it was. The story follows the basic which guy does the girl choose plot line, and it remains pretty basic. If your significant other is usually opposed to these films, be kind and do not force him to watch this. There are plenty of other rom coms out there that will make everyone laugh even without admitting it. This is not one. Watch it yourself or with a few friends who enjoy the same type of movie.
I can only sum up this movie as cute and entertaining. If you’re bored, go ahead. If you like the actors, okay, try it. I warn you, though each of these actors has shown great talent in other films, this is not one, and I don’t entirely blame the actors for that. I felt the writing was not compelling enough to offer them a chance to expand the characters any more than they did in the film. I also certainly do not recommend purchasing this film like I did, unless you find it on a bargain rack. Do not dive off the regular price cliff that I found myself doing.
I give this film 2 ½ Buttery Kernels.
Coming Soon: Across the Universe
Director: Griffin Dunne
Screenplay: Mimi Hare, Clare Naylor, Bonnie Sikowitz
Starring: Uma Thurman, Colin Firth, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan
Dr. Emma Lloyd is a popular and well-respected love guru with her own radio talk show. For Patrick Sullivan, she is the woman that ruined his life after she gave advice to his fiancé to call off the wedding. Knowing that the good doctor herself will be getting hitched soon, Patrick decides to get a little payback by hacking into state records and making her married to him. The comedy proceeds as Emma tries to sort out the mistake and still keep her wedding together. The marriage mistake seems to take a backseat to her new problem, her growing attraction to Patrick. Who will she choose?
I personally purchased this, because I had yet to see it and enjoy Colin Firth. Now I wish my logic of not buying it at full price won out my carefree whim. It’s not great, but it’s not terrible. This is a standard chick flick. It’s so standard that I’m a little surprised that it was not an original Lifetime movie, yet I still would have seen it, if it was. The story follows the basic which guy does the girl choose plot line, and it remains pretty basic. If your significant other is usually opposed to these films, be kind and do not force him to watch this. There are plenty of other rom coms out there that will make everyone laugh even without admitting it. This is not one. Watch it yourself or with a few friends who enjoy the same type of movie.
I can only sum up this movie as cute and entertaining. If you’re bored, go ahead. If you like the actors, okay, try it. I warn you, though each of these actors has shown great talent in other films, this is not one, and I don’t entirely blame the actors for that. I felt the writing was not compelling enough to offer them a chance to expand the characters any more than they did in the film. I also certainly do not recommend purchasing this film like I did, unless you find it on a bargain rack. Do not dive off the regular price cliff that I found myself doing.
I give this film 2 ½ Buttery Kernels.
Coming Soon: Across the Universe
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)