The Worst Movie of 2007

Watch the trailer: http://movies.aol.com/movie/georgia-rule/25985/main

I'm fortunate to see a new movie about once a week. After seeing the trailer for Georgia Rule, I was expecting a family comedy/drama. And with Jane Fonda heading the cast, I figured this would be a good movie. Well I was fooled by the trailer. The comedy is at the expense of Felicity Huffman's character and not really funny but meanspirited in the depiction of her drinking problem. Didn't funny drunks go out of style after Dudley Moore's Arthur?  Fonda is wasted in too small a role and  hearing her tell her granddaughter to "go f--k herself'' did not come off as amusing but coarse and out of character. And if you dislike Lindsay Lohan, you'll really hate her after seeing her here. Her character seems to mirror her real life and this backfires on the audience as you soon have no sympathy for this manipulative, lying whorebag. I'm not sure when she was ever telling the truth and by the movie's end, I didn't care. Even the maudlin happy ending (with Lohan & Huffman as her mom pictured above) seems insincere & tacked on and couldn't save this mess. At that point the only thing I cared about was being glad the movie was over.

 

Most of the characters are unappealing or embarrassing as in the portrayal of the dumb hick kid who falls for Lohan. The movie's main fault is its uneven and unsatisfying balance between comedy & drama that I'm willing to bet that last minute editing couldn't save a possibly bad script. Real laughs are  few & far between. When we left the theater, people were grumbling and one lady said to me: "This wasn't what I expected."  My thoughts exactly!  My 89-year-old mother hated this vulgar movie so much, I thought I was going to lose my inheritance...  lol

 

I try to see well-reviewed movies and those recommended by friends whose opinions I trust.  However, Georgia Rule was the worst movie I saw in 2007. You can watch similar but certainly better stuff for free on TV. If you're a masochist, rent the DVD.

'Starting Out In The Evening' Movie

 

Watch the trailer: http://movies.aol.com/movie/starting-out-in-the-evening/25084/main

We saw this movie today and were very impressed & moved by the story & the performers about a forgotten writer pursued by a pushy admiring student who wants to interview him for her thesis and ingratiates herself into his private life. Since my wife and I hold M.A. degrees in English, we know something about writers, the writing process, and writing theses, so this movie rang true for us. In '79 we saw Langella on Broadway as Dracula, which he repeated in the film version,  and a few years later as Sherlock Holmes, and have seen most of his movies. He was thinner then but he has aged gracefully filling into character roles. He is one of our greatest actors and his talent elevates any project. And what a marvelous voice! Check out his bellowing Skeletor in Masters of the Universe, unhindered by his heavy mask & costume.

Starting Out In The Evening has one of his best performances earning great reviews and is not to be missed. Here he holds back as he cautiously conceals his past to the student but when he releases his reticence for an emotional outburst, he does it in a restrained but powerful manner that still moves you. Lauren Ambrose as the insistent student and Lily Taylor as his daughter occasionally at odds with him hold their own as actors in balancing the drama that never becomes maudlin.

I fully agree with the NY Times reviewer's perceptive comments below except for his remark about the movie score being 'vulgar and obvious.' We thought it was complimentary and never overpowering to distract us. We were so absorbed in this quiet drama that I hardly noticed it. This is an understated movie that packs a punch when it's over.  http://movies.nytimes.com/2007/11/23/movies/23even.html

And yes the movie is based on another novel I haven't read....

'Charlie Wilson's War' Movie

Watch the trailer: http://movies.aol.com/movie/charlie-wilsons-war/23212/main

I've read how this movie is based on a true story. I'll have to watch the History Channel's show about the real Charlie Wilson and compare both versions. As a film it's entertaining and sly, and highlighted with deft performances by the three leads. While watching Charlie Wilson's War, you might begin to think it's only a wicked satire on Washington and global politics but since all of it is supposed to be true....  gawd help us! There's a history lesson buried in this well-crafted movie: How our nation armed the Afghanistani to defeat their Soviet invaders and then abandoned them when they needed help in reconstructing their country is what lead them to turn against us and let the Taliban take over, a big mistake we're still paying for. This point is briefly brought up at the end and you almost miss it as you leave the theater still reeling from earlier scenes of snappy dialogue, caustic humour, and the surrealist wheeling & dealings of government bureaucrats. Only a sophisticated director like Mike Nichols, with a background in edgy comedy routines, could juggle history, humour, and satire without it all come crashing down on the audience's heads.

'I Am Legend' Movie

Watch the trailer: http://movies.aol.com/movie/i-am-legend-2007/23760/main

Once again, this movie is based on another novel (by Richard Matheson) I haven't read.  Next week I'm getting the unabridged Audio Book with a Borders' discount coupon. After I hear it, I'll compare it to the movie while both are still fresh in my mind. For now I must say this movie was good and I see why it's clobbering the competition at the box office.  There are two earlier versions, the first with Vincent Price: http://www.amazon.com/Last-Man-Earth-Vincent-Price/dp/B000WC3A0I/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1198794373&sr=1-1

and a better second one with Charlton Heston that's closer to the latest one: http://www.amazon.com/Omega-Man-Anna-Aries/dp/B000P0J0BU/ref=pd_bxgy_d_img_b

I listened to the Audio Book version and it was pretty good. The main difference is that the  book's creatures are more like vampires. The latest movie avoids that premise but they are scary enough.  A lot of money has been spent here and it's all on the screen. There's plenty of suspense and last minute nerve-wracking escapes by Will Smith who spends a lot of time talking to himself and his dog. Oh yes there's a dog in the novel but he's used differently here. That goes too for the woman he meets. There If you're looking for edge-of-your-seat thrills, this movie will not disappoint. Smith gives a good performance since he has to almost carry the film on his shoulders with lots of dialogue and stunts amid the high tech digital effects. You feel the desolation and loneliness he feels.

I Am Legend is probably the biggest hit of recently-released movies. A few weeks before it opened,  I read an article listing actors including Smith who are considered overpaid because their movies don't make big profits. Well guess who's laughing all the way to the bank? As someone once said, success is the best revenge....

'Sweeney Todd' Movie

Watch the trailer: http://movies.aol.com/movie/sweeney-todd-the-demon-barber-of-fleet-street/26627/main

I was fortunate to see the original Broadway show/cast with Angela Lansbury in '79. How will this new version compare?  I've read there's more emphasis on the Grand Guignol & gore as if the idea of Tim Burton's girlfriend Helena Bonham Carter taking over Lansbury's role isn't scary enough. And what about Sondheim's operetta-ish score?  Will Burton's visual fireworks compensate for Sondheim's truncated music? Here's his thoughts on its reworking: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/16/theater/16gree.html?_r=1&ref=movies&oref=slogin

We caught a matinee showing of Sweeney Todd. Yes the dark visuals are first-rate as you expect in a Burton film  and oh yes there's gore galore. If you think you're going to see something like The Sound of Music, this one's not for you. The story is as faithful as I remember and there's enough of the original score warbled by the two leads. Johnny Depp's vocals are adequate but moving. His piercing eyes and chiseled features cut through the film as he relishes his role as the razor-wielding barber seeking revenge against the evil judge who ruined his life and family.

I have to admit Helena Bonham Carter acquitted herself singing the difficult score as she matched Depp's performing skills as his partner in revenge but with an agenda of her own.  Alan Rickman plays the judge with his usual refined nastiness in portraying villains. The rest of the cast is splendid (and better as singers) in aiding the somber mood. If you like this film, you might want to check out the filmed stage version with Lansbury: http://www.amazon.com/Sweeney-Todd-Demon-Barber-Street/dp/B00005JL6V/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1198705750&sr=1-1

'The Golden Compass' Movie

 

Watch the trailer: http://movies.aol.com/movie/the-golden-compass/23389/main

 

This movie reminded me of  Stardust, another recent fantasy based on a book I haven't read. It seems lately I've been seeing several movies based on books I haven't read and should read. Alas who has time to read everything? I struggle through several magazines every month and watch some TV shows and DVDs, including some books about film.  I should order the audio books to listen to while driving to work. Right now I'm listening to Lauren Bacall's autobiography....

 

Stardust undeservedly wasn't a big hit and I read that this movie is heading that way. Both are enjoyable but why aren't they reaching larger audiences?  They are well acted and the special effects are the best around. Much care has been put into these productions. Is it because their plots hard to follow? Not really. Compass is harder to follow but not incomprehensible.

 

This movie will also remind you of The Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland as our young heroine begins an archetypal quest accompanied by and populated with strange creatures.  Fans of fantasy should see this film for its striking visuals including the animated creatures called daemons that mirror their heroic & villainous human counterparts.  This movie is geared for a sequel or two since there are two more books in this trilogy as explained here: http://movies.nytimes.com/2007/12/07/movies/07comp.html

 

Only the box office will determine the fate of sequels.....

 

'Blade Runner' revisited...

Above are the different versions available. I purchased the bottom one, a two disc set with an excellent documentary about the film's history. More on the other sets. Here's a good article about the film's making and revised restoration: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/30/movies/30kapl.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

I saw Blade Runner in the theater in '83. I liked it but didn't think it would go over with the Star Wars/E.T crowd. It proved to be too dark & heavy just as Dune would meet the same fate. Later on through video releases and cable showings, these two films found new audiences that appreciated what earlier ones rejected: Their detailed visuals, aural fireworks, and deep plots that required repeated viewings which offer more rewards with every showing.

Tonight I watched 'The Final Cut' on my 32'' set and wished I saw it in the theater like the first time. The visuals are better than ever but cry out for the big screen. The letterbox format is the only way to savor this feast for the eyes and a good surround sound system lets the music and effects breathe more life into the story. What's missing from the orginal version? Harrison Ford's weary voiceover that was added because test audiences had trouble following the plot but I didn't miss it this time.  Maybe it's because I seen the movie a few times and own a book about the making of the movie and also read many articles. I think today's viewers are more sophisticated in handling the narratives that aren't spoonfed.  Also missing is the 'happy' ending that isn't really necessary but also felt needed by the studio. All this & more is explained in the three hours +  documentary. If you really want to know how movies are made from beginning to end, this is where to start.

What 1982's Blade Runner attempted was to make a 1940's film noir detective story and place it forty years ahead in 2019. Some of the clothing and, most noticably, Sean Young's hairdo look like they escaped from a Bogart movie as they mingle with the urban/punk outfits of a decaying Los Angeles. The entire look of the city has been copied in many futuristic movies portraying a negative utopia. What's also amazing is thatthe visuals were painstakingly created before there were computer generated graphics. What also impressed me was Rutger Hauer's performance. He was also physically perfect for the role. I forgot how good he was here and it's too bad he never went on to more or better leading roles in better movies.  The same goes for an inexperienced Sean Young....

Some films get better with age like a fine wine and this one is no exception. What was original way back then has been copied in almost every sci fi film and TV show. If you're a super fan, get the deluxe set that includes the original/voiceover version. Actually I think that version and this latest one both work on their own terms. My next viewing will be listening to director Ridley Scott's commentary. How many of you ever take the time to explore the bonus features of DVDs? You should because you're missing so much that will enhance your knowledge and pleasure of a good movie.

'Atonement' Movie

Watch the trailer: http://movies.aol.com/movie/atonement/26636/main

This movie will easily remind you of The English Patient. Both were based on acclaimed novels and made into stately period pieces set around/during WWII. Both films use magnificent sets & scenery and costumes that never dwarf the plot and acting while an impressive music score underlines the drama.

Of course some critics have complained that the film doesn't capture the totality of the novel but I haven't read it and can only judge what's on the screen. This is an intelligent, thought-provoking work that slowly catches you offguard as it plays tricks with the time line to evoke surprises. The cast is splendid, including the three actresses who play Brione, the child whose  cruel lie sets the tragic events in motion and how she later tries to make amends.  It's good to see Keira Knightly not in Caribbean pirate drag,  playing an English aristocrat from another period and James McAvoy understated performance has your support & sympathy as her wronged lover. The true meaning of atonement comes full circle with Vanessa Redgrave's brief appearance at the end.

'Spring Awakening' on Broadway

Saturday December 15, I went to NYC with a co-worker on one of two buses hired for the day by our company.  Our bus had mechanical troubles starting out and we switched to another waiting one in Bridgeport. Our NYC arrival time was a half hour later (10:45AM) but it was better than being stranded later on a broken-down bus.  As we drove down 5th Ave.my buddy Russ got dropped off at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and I went for the Rockefeller Center dropoff. I went to a deli for a fast brunch and then across the street to Barnes & Noble. I checked my shopping list and found one of three opera DVDS and a two CD anthology of Duncan Sheik's music. Since he wrote the score for the Broadway show we were seeing at 2:00 and I knew nothing about him, this was a practical choice. I did recognize his one (?) hit 'Barely Breathing.'

My next stop was The Virgin Megastore on Times Square. I did better than expected on past visits. I was looking for four Joni Mitchell CDs and they had ALL of them!  B & N had none. I finally found the elusive Mitch Ryder Greatest Hits (see HippieFest blog). There were many bargain tables of CDs & DVDs for $10 where I found an acclaimed Russian horror film called Night Watch and the Broadway Soundtrack  for Wicked for my wife. Another must-buy was the movie soundtrack for Curse of The Golden Flower, an epic Chinese film and I also got a good deal on James Taylor's recent CD/DVD concert. I couldn't find the other two operas but I'll get them for Xmas gifts.

I met Russ at the theater for our 2:00 matinee of Spring Awakening. We were seated in the second to last row but it was a small theater. Here's the website. Watch a video for a song:

http://www.springawakening.com/home.php

And what a show! Most of the original cast was there and so were all the original band members onstage in the rear keeping the energetic choreography pumping. The 'Bitch of Lving' video is the perfect example. The score switches easily between rocking showstoppers and yearning ballads, This musical is based on a controversial play: Here's a description and comparison of both: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spring_Awakening_%28play%29

There were graphic simulations of sex that are central to the drama but they never overshadowed the performers and musical numbers.  As I write this, I'm listening to the Sheik anthology, I can hear the similarities in his show. A minimal set vibrated with constant lighting changes to evoke different moods for different scenes. This was adult entertainment at its best and I can see why this musical swept the 2006 Tony Awards, Broadway's equivalent to the Oscars. Our only quibble was that the closing number should have been an up tempo one. Broadway shows are $$$ but are worth it to us.

We dined again at a famous restaurant that we tried last year. They have a good prix-fixe dinner deal we devoured with a nice bottle of white wine. Check out their site:  http://standrewsnyc.com/ 

We did some last minute shopping before leaving at 7:00. We saw the huge Xmas tree from Shelton, CT., outside at Rockefeller Center. It was a good day for us and although it was cold, we were home before a snowstorm arrived overnight.

'Bella' Movie

Watch the trailer: http://movies.aol.com/movie/bella/27497/main

Today we saw this small low budget film that's popular with audiences but has been knocked by critics for being overly sentimental.  A good example is this review: http://movies.nytimes.com/2007/10/26/movies/26bell.html

Readers blogs for this review and others have been raving about Bella and I can see why. It's a simple story about love, sacrifice, and atonement with strong family values & support at the core. Each main character faces a challenge and will they overcome it is the plot. This movie will restore your faith in humanity as you watch family and friends help them in their time of need. Yes there is some goodness left in their world and we want these characters to benefit from it.

Some critics don't understand that there are all kinds of movies for all kinds of audiences. I went to Bella expecting to see a nice little, feelgood movie and was not disappointed. I wasn't expecting great art and not every movie is a Citizen Kane. The performances were good and the story kept you interested all the way. Was Bella overly sentimental? I didn't think so and neither did the audience.  The movie made its points without hammering them. You wanted a happy ending and this one has one but with a slight twist so it wasn't predictable.

'Enchanted' Movie

 

Watch the trailer:  http://movies.aol.com/movie/enchanted/24547/main

Unlike Tin Man, here's a good example of a revisionist work that succeeds on every level and is proving it at the box office. The film is a loving tribute to the classic animated Disney films like Snow White, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty as well as a gentle poke at them. Children will devour the fairy tale plot and adults will appreciate the satire and parody. The humor is never mean spirited and you will laugh along with the movie and not at it.

Amy Adams easily wins you over as the wide-eyed damsel in distress and James Marsden, who was so good as the TV host in Hairspray, is even better here as her goofy Prince Charming seeking her in Manhattan. The musical numbers will have you smiling as you recall similar moments from the Disney films. Patrick Dempsey's soupuss widower/father gets a bit tiresome playing against the fun but you learn why his character acts that way and he is eventually won over. Susan Sarandon has fun sinking her teeth into her part as the evil queen. Everything works out in the end and I guarantee you will leave the theater happy.

'Tin Man' TV Miniseries

Starting tonight The Sci Fi Channel is broadcasting an ambitious six hour reworking of The Wizard of OZ called Tin Man.   See if you can figure out who's who from the above pic. Read about it here: http://www.scifi.com/tinman/

How this adaptation will succeed we'll soon discover. Meanwhile you can read this review: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/30/arts/30tin.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Well after watching six hours of this revisionist saga, I will say it was too long and dragged out. It was interesting to spot the references to the original and see how they were changed. The computer-generated graphics were very good and the acting was fine. But what was the point of making this miniseries? If anything it made you appreciate the book and movie version. You need to be a diehard OZ fan to slug through Tin Man. I was tempted several times to change the channel. My wife gave up after the first installment and thought it was a ripoff of Stephen King's Gunslinger series.

For those OZ purists, here's the best DVD edition of the 1939 classic. The bonus features are worth every penny: http://www.amazon.com/Wizard-Oz-Three-Disc-Collectors/dp/B000ADS64E/ref=pd_bbs_sr_3?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1196622440&sr=1-3