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Batman Begins (2005)
"Why Do We Fall?"
This film was likely the best "Batman" yet. It's the story of Batman that's skipped over in the '89 film, which can leave much to be told. Although, there is a retelling of how Bruce Wayne's parents were killed. The killer is a common criminal, not Jack Napier. This may not be easily accepted by avid fans of the '89 film. I feel it works. Also, this film brings Wayne's parents across as more caring individuals, especially his father, wonderfully played by Linus Roache, who has a deep caring for the poor, struggling people of Gotham City during times of depression.
Everyone, as a matter of fact, was perfectly casted in this film. Christian Bale plays Bruce Wayne, as well as Batman, in a new, unique way. The voice he puts on as Batman, new and original, is fierce. Liam Neeson plays Henri Ducard wonderfully. Another difference from the '89 film is the addition of a childhood friend, played by Katie Holmes, who I thought was very good. Michael Caine was nicely cast as Alfred, as well as Gary Oldman as Jim Gordon.
Another new face, next to Duccard, is the bookworm-like Jonathan Crane played by Cillian Murphy. He really shines when he tries to instill fear in others by assuming the Scarecrow. Tom Wilkinson was absolutely fabulous as Falcone. He's very convincing and draws you in immediately. I also enjoyed Morgan Freeman's performance; everyone was flawless.
This film deals a lot with the concept of fear and the ability to face it. This recurring theme is exactly what should be emphasized with this type of character. Even with today's technology, this movie stays very real and is a must-see for even the oldest of "Batman" fans. It has a lot of heart.
After the fall, the "Batman" franchise has managed to pick itself up again.
The Matrix Reloaded (2003)
Better The Second Time
After I saw "The Matrix" several years ago, I thought to myself: this movie is so good! I was really surprised to hear that a sequel, let alone 2, were coming out back in 2003.
When I first saw "The Matrix Reloaded" I honestly was not thrilled. The effects were phenomenal and more astounding than its predecessor, but the story had almost disappeared. The movie basically became merely a film that relied on its effects to entertain its audience.
Two years later, I gave "Reloaded" and even "Revolutions" another chance. I've got to say, they're both better the second and even the third time around. "Reloaded," as Laurence Fishburne said, is the 'life' component of the One's journey. It's a continuation, taking place six months after "The Matrix", the 'birth' of the One, with the machines preparing to destroy Zion and all that is left of humankind.
The best part of this movie is undoubtedly the fight between Neo and Smith, Smith, Smith, Smith, etc. In a sense, we find that Smith is becoming what he hates: a human that continuously multiplies "until every natural resource is consumed." Like he had said in the first one, another organism follows the similar multiplicative characteristic of humans: "a virus." Neo has become the representative of a human fighting off a virus. This symbolism becomes extremely prevalent in the final installment.
The worst part of this movie, when I had first seen it, was the scene when Neo meets the Architect. He lays out important plot material, but because of his language and how he drones on, you almost feel Neo is a high school kid and the Architect is the monotonous teacher. I had dazed out the first time until Trinity was brought into the picture. You almost get the sense that Neo did the same thing.
After seeing the scene again, the Architect basically tells Neo that the Matrix is an ongoing cycle where the human race is created, destroyed, and recreated; another cycle is about to take place. Because this message was brought about in the way it was done, it's almost slightly comical.
The film ends with Neo's mind trapped in the Matrix and Smith inside Zion (he copied himself into Bane when he was in the Matrix). Now, originally the last two installments of "The Matrix" trilogy were one movie. I can't help but wonder if it would have made both movies even better. The focus would have remained more on the One and Smith would have been seen as the greater threat he was supposed to be (this goes especially for the third).
Overall, you need to give "Reloaded" another chance. There's much more heart than you can initially observe.
The Matrix: Path of Neo (2005)
A Matrix Fan Must-Have!
"The Matrix: Path of Neo" was actually a decent game despite reviews I've read. It has qualities that will be liked by some and be disliked by others. It all depends on your preferences.
First of all, it seems that the Wachowski brothers strayed from the dramatic feel of the movies and made the game strictly a video game. I say this because of several things you encounter as you play. You run into these giant ant things in the Château level, a glitch in the Matrix that shows the fight between Neo and Seraph on a movie screen with an annoyed audience member as you fight Seraph, the infamous change to the ending: "Monster Mega Smith," and of course: "We Are The Champions" playing when you win.
In my opinion, these things don't make the game worse; they show the brothers' sense of humor. There were differences from the movie that made the game fun to play, such as the extended roof escape in the beginning, rescuing Red Pills, and even the training levels. I've read that the training levels were annoying, but I actually like them.
All depending on preference, making this game without the drama of the movies may not be very appealing. I happen to be someone who likes to play movie-based games that are very close to the feel of the film, plot to music. I also was disappointed when I didn't hear the original actors' voices. I'm sure they were too busy, especially Mr. Weaving since he has a movie coming out this year that's by the Wachowski brothers.
However, the Wachowski brothers made a very smart move: 'release a Matrix game while the movies are still in theaters that isn't solely based on main characters. Give them side characters first.' When I played "Enter the Matrix," I craved to play Neo. They waited 2 years before they released the second Matrix game so that nearly every Matrix fan and gamer will rush to the stores and grab every "Path of Neo" copy they can get their hands on.
"Is this game better than 'Enter the Matrix?'" There are several noticeable differences. First of all, "PON" has much more to unlock and it seems like more time was put into it. However, "ETM" had a more polished look with its characters and settings, whereas "PON" has a very fog-like appearance. Also, the music for "ETM" was extremely bombastic but very "Matrix"-like. "PON"'s music is more subtle and lightly touches "The Matrix" theme.
Effect-wise, "PON" definitely has cooler effects. Being able to fly in mid-air and jump so high has its rewards. Also, "PON" has a target lock that enables you to shoot with more accuracy. It makes you work more where "ETM" had your character aim automatically when you're not in 'first person mode.' The addition of mêlée weapons and the bigger variety in fighting combinations makes "PON" more exciting and less repetitive. I also enjoy the qualifying challenge in "PON" that requires you to defeat as many enemies as you can in order to determine which level of difficulty you're best suited to play.
But I can't help but wish that this game that I waited 2 years for adhered more closely to the movies. The cut scenes were nicely done, but they weren't exactly in sequence. The Wachowski brothers basically said: 'you know the story. You're an avid fan. You know what happens.' This is alright, but I would have preferred it if I was taken through the movies step by step with the cut scenes in order.
There is always room for improvement and I would have probably done the following:
1. put cut scenes in sequence
2. add 2 more levels, one where Neo fights Bane and one when Trinity and Neo are flying through the Machine World
3. keep the musical score exactly from the movies
4. choose NOT to play Queen's song at the end
5. keep the ending the same
These are merely suggestions on how I would have approached this project. I feel the game was too short and I don't think Neo's sacrifice could have hindered the game that much. Afterall, that's what happened in the movies.
I DO like how "PON" turned out. I feel you have to play it for yourself to develop your own opinions. I recommend it is at least rented so you can walk in the shoes of the One.
I rate it a 7 out of 10.
The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
"I'm not so bad once you get to know me."
"It is inevitable." The final installment of "The Matrix" has the power of any ending to a trilogy. Though it's not as powerful as its very first predecessor, I can't help but become depressed with the truth: "Is it over?"
"I'm going to be as forthcoming as I can be." Hugo Weaving is the stand-out performance of the movie. Of course, Keanu Reeves continues his reign of a good actor since 1993 with his powerful expressions and the flare he adds to his every move. The entire cast is at its supremest, which is essentially the purpose for why this film affects me as much as it does. The effects are still ones to be marveled over, though one can't help but miss the usual "I know Kung Fu" battles. The final fight is undoubtedly the most powerful one.
Back to Weaving; he delivers such a performance that you feel ashamed to like him because of how evil he is. He's the guilty pleasure villain that is an absolute pleasure to watch with wonderment. Overall, all is powerful in the all powerful "Matrix."
The Devil's Advocate (1997)
"A Sheep Amidst the Wolves"
My initial reaction to the first time I saw this movie was "woah." I couldn't have pictured better fitting performances than the ones Keanu Reeves, Al Pacino and Charlize Theron gave. The chemistry between all of the actors on screen was exceptional.
Of course, one can obviously expect a more than brilliant performance from the flawless Al Pacino. However, I was pleasantly surprised with Keanu's. He really shined when he rushes to his wife who has just killed herself. Charlize Theron was also very excellent in this movie and, once again, a perfect fit for her role.
I feel that the ending of "The Devil's Advocate" was the absolute best part of the whole movie. The plot takes you for a ride: you aren't sure whether Kevin is going to go through with helping his father or not. You can also breathe the heaviest sigh of relief when everything actually works out in the end. This was a fantastic film! I highly recommend it.
Life as a House (2001)
A Good, Sweet Film
I just finished seeing this movie an hour ago and I'm actually pretty satisfied with it. I heard from this website that it was a good movie so I decided to rent it. I was also curious about Hayden Christensen's performance and after seeing it, I thought he was great. He played a totally believable miserable teen with a lot of inner problems. In a way his character, Sam, and his father, Kevin Kline as George, are similar in the sense that they both are alone. Sam purposely shoves away affection and his family. George lives by himself as a divorced man. At one point he tells a nurse that he hadn't been touched warmly by another person, family or friend, in years.
I've always enjoyed watching Kevin Kline but in this film, he was different. I'm used to a more comical and happier character portrayal. Here, he is miserable and alone. I think that, from what I'm used to seeing from him, this was perhaps one of his best performances.
At first, it is a little slow moving, but it picks up. I found it sad to believe that the mother had absolutely no control over her son. Kline and Christensen were good together. A father trying to find love from his son before he dies and keeping that from his family for so long shows that he wasn't so much selfish as he was selfless. It is very easy for someone to regret not patching problems up with a friend or a loved one before it was too late. His decision to build a house was what saved he and his family.
It was a good, sweet film that I recommend to anyone with family issues, even minor ones. Appreciate your family and know that it's not too late to help a person change.
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)
Great Movie-Based Game
I bought an XBox just so I could buy the game and play it. When I did, I was very pleased. I was online and I ran into a site about it that was so enticing, I had to get it. The only thing was I played it so often when I first got it, I beat it in about 3 days. I kind of miss playing it but now that everything's done, the incentive to do so is gone. So if you're going to buy this game, I suggest that you try not to burn it out with your enthusiasm.
There was something else that was a little disappointing about it. I had expected at least Hayden Christensen's and Ewan McGregor's voices to be featured in the game as themselves. Many of the LOTR cast did for "The Two Towers" and "The Return of the King" games I have for Gamecube. However, the voices that were cast as them were convincing for a while.
It's not as bad as I've read in other reviews. If you want a game based on a movie, you want it as closely related to it as possible and this game's the closest you'll get to "Revenge of the Sith" before its DVD release.
The Pirates of Penzance (1983)
Kevin Kline, You Slay Me
My mother always used to quote this movie and I never knew what she was talking about. She used to tell me of this movie and how her and her sister used to laugh hysterically. Years later, I compelled her to rent it. I have never laughed so hard at a movie before. After seeing this movie, I fell in love with Kevin Kline and his sense of humor. I missed him every time he wasn't in a scene. The thing that REALLY got me going was the "Tarantura" song scene. It was so slapstick and unexpected. Tony Azito was my other favorite comic in this movie. He and Kline steal the show. This isn't your usual musical. It's more of a comedy with songs that you just can't stop singing or hysterical lines you can't stop repeating. I recommend this movie to all Kevin Kline fans, but doubt that any haven't seen it.
Batman Forever (1995)
Give Some Attention
When I saw the 5 out of 10 stars for this movie on this website, my jaw dropped. In MY opinion, this is my favorite Batman movie. Val Kilmer definitely needed more soul for the film (but in his defense, he was OK), but besides that, the villains were top notch. Tommy Lee Jones really played with insanity in an almost Nicholson way. No one can replace The Joker, however. I've loved this movie ever since I was young and I feel I must defend it. There's so much intrigue, darkness, and imagination to be taken into consideration. This movie really has the Batman feel. It may not be as great as "Batman Begins" (which I've yet to see), but it really has heart that needs attention. For those who haven't seen it, I hope you're not disappointed. "Wait 'til they get a load of *this*."
Big Fish (2003)
The Difference Between Lies And Stories
I first got the urge to see this movie after I saw Tim Burton's brilliant take on "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." All of his movies are usually filled with imagination and heart. "Big Fish" has both. Only, there is less fun in all of the imagination when the main character's amazing stories of his life are questioned by his realistic son.
The entire movie has sincerity and humor, only sometimes you're not sure if half of it is funny. Every actor gives their all, and I think that saves this movie even more. You wonder why this young man (Will Bloom) has so many problems with tall tales told by his dying father (Ed Bloom). It REALLY takes the fun out of the whole movie until the end. That may have been the plan the entire time.
The last few scenes are what touched me the most. It shows that story telling makes life more exciting. What Ed Bloom was telling weren't lies, they were stories. Some people are too realistic, that they forget the fun of imagination. As soon as Will told that last story, you really try not to cry from what a wonderful story teller he had become.
Down with Love (2003)
Thumbs Up For "Down"
When I first saw this movie, I was like "huh?" I saw modern innuendo wrapped up in a pretty 1960's wrapper. To be honest, I hadn't (and still haven't) seen a 60's bedroom comedy or a Rock Hudson/Doris Day movie. But for those of you who have, I feel that that this movie will not disappoint you. The creators captured New York in the 60's perfectly. There were no miscasts either; every actor was delightful. You feel that they are actually in 1960's New York.
After seeing this movie a few times more, I began to look at it merely as a 2003 romantic comedy. Ewan McGregor was perfect as the slick Catcher Block. Several times in the HBO extra, he's referred to as Sean Connery playing James Bond. Renee Zellweger played the perky Barbara Novak in such a way that you feel she's an actress from the 60's. And of course, I loved David Hyde Pierce as Peter MacMannus. His snippy attitude was a great addition to this movie.
The only time the movie sort of loses you is when Barbara spends 5 minutes explaining her plot and the camera doesn't move. You think the movie's going to end soon after until you're suddenly swept into another half hour or so that ties things together.
Overall, if you're looking for a modern twist to 1960's N.Y., this is the movie for you. Or if you're just looking to watch Ewan McGregor playing another great role, see "Down With Love" and you won't be disappointed.
The Island (2005)
Good Story, Bad Directing
Could there be anymore chase scenes? I enjoy action movies but with this one, there's a point where I said "enough is enough!"
If you haven't seen the trailer, heard about the background, and you like the element of surprise, I suggest that if you plan on seeing this film, see it before you find out anything. Well, for those of you who have yet to see it, plan to, and have done one of the above, I feel you may be slightly disappointed when Lincoln and Jordan discover the truth: they're clones. That tiny intrigue for the audience is unfortunately spoiled by t.v.
Overall, this movie had a good story but a silly action director who didn't know that there's more than action to some movies. I felt there were too many "macho man" and "be-on-edge" shots. They kept your interest, however, and they did entertain me, but it didn't make sense how this underground corporation got away with destroying half the city just to cover up the clones' presence in the city. I guess it's things like that that separate your action flick from your action movie.
I feel that the acting was good. I especially enjoyed Ewan as Tom Lincoln. I hadn't seen him act like a jerk until this film and I found it refreshing. Scarlett Johansson seemed like she was casted merely for her looks. Don't get me wrong, it's nice to look at good looking people, but there again the action movie/action flick line is drawn. Even Sean Bean, who we all know as LOTR's Boromir, was his bad self and did a good job. But I feel Michael Bay is at fault for all of the bad reviews that are surrounding this movie.
If you look past the stereotypes and corny action flick lines, ("They're gonna hack you up.") you'll find a decent story that was unfortunately wasted.
Shattered Glass (2003)
Is that Darth Vader?
Normally I would never see a movie like this but ever since Star Wars, I had to. And I'm glad I did. In the beginning, you already have the characters categorized as "good or bad." This is what's brilliant about this movie: the twist. Hayden Christensen gives a heartfelt performance while Peter Sarsgaard convinces you that he is an editor. Although Hank Azaria's role is short, you really fall in love with who he's trying to be. He stole my heart the same way he did when he played Mitch Albom in Oprah's take on "Tuesdays With Morrie." The only disappointment is finding out that Glass actually fabricated his works. He lies so often about it that you believe him and expect a bigger result. Otherwise, this movie is a well organized mystery that unfolds by slowly breaking the heart of an eager-to-be-liked kid. Hayden puts the tears on so quickly and so often that you feel sorry for Stephen Glass. Hayden did a truly remarkable job.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
A Sweet Treat!
A Tim Burton movie. Hm... a line like that may automatically make movie-goers stray from ever seeing the movie. It did for me. The trailer and the fact that he was doing a new take on one of my childhood's classics made me very skeptical. However, I went to see it anyway for the wonderful Johnny Depp. I expected him to basically be the only enjoyable part of the movie.
I was completely wrong. Burton did an AMAZING job. The movie is not a remake of the splendid musical as many may expect. It had another take on some elements which added more to the movie. You see young Willy and how his childhood affected him.
The element of family importance is the main theme, I feel. Charlie is not flawed like the old version had which makes the movie slightly saccharine. But if you consider how a child can be severely grounded because of his or her poverty, it seems more real. Johnny did a superb job and I hope he gets an Oscar for his performance. :-)
Overall, it touched me as "Edward Scissorhands" and "Big Fish" did. So if you've got a sweet tooth, see "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" for a sweet treat!
Troy (2004)
Good, but not Great
Brad Pitt in a skirt: how nice. Besides the good looks of the cast, this movie was Wolfgang Petersen's failed attempt at a successful epic film. That doesn't mean it wasn't enjoyable; it has its perks. Pitt's performance as the pompous Achilles is decent and Orlando Bloom shows us once again that he can play someone from an earlier time period successfully. Eric Bana's Hector was something that made the whole movie worth while. The major flaw to this film was the excessive amount of its main characters dying. This showed the devastation of war but left no one to enjoy their victory. I only hope that if some sort of spin-off is made from this film Sean Bean will be delightfully portraying Odysseus once again and finally take on a major leading role.
Spider-Man (2002)
Swinging into Action
"Spider-Man! Spider-Man! Does whatever a spider can!" You know the song; you know the costume; you know the name. The comic book is brought to life in Sam Raimi's wonderfully fulfilling movie adaptation of the web slinger. Fans should not be disappointed with Peter's younger age: it's modern, right? Everything's hectic when you're a teenager, and you don't need to be a superhero to feel that way. Tobey Maguire makes a wonderful Peter Parker and an "amazing Spider-Man." He certainly makes the viewer feel Peter's dilemmas of his role conflicting life. But with every hero, you'll find a villain, and Willem Dafoe rises to the occasion playing the green clad rogue. He gives an outstanding performance as he allows the viewer to explore his inner psyche. Of course, Kirsten Dunst and James Franco didn't disappoint playing Peter's closest friends. You feel at the end of this movie, a sequel or two is something to highly look forward to with the high standard that is set.
Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)
A Fun Savvy Movie
What can be better than seeing a movie with Johnny Depp wearing makeup? NOTHING! Seriously, what a story. The first time seeing this movie, I felt it was too good to only receive the maximum of 3 out of 4 stars, and I still don't see why. First of all, the acting leaves you wishing you were in the shoes of a pirate yourself, whether you are on the good side or the bad. Personally, this was the performance of Johnny Depp's career, though he's had many, none were as recognizable or as fun to imitate as Captain Jack Sparrow. The cast is superb, the action is endless, and the comedy is more than funny. I feel this movie deserved to at least win ONE Academy Award. As for my nine out of ten rating, I've learned to accept the fact that 4 stars is the most and I've made a balance. "Pirates of the Caribbean" leaves you dying to see the second.
Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005)
Good, But Not Perfect
Well, I definitely felt "Episode 3" was better than the second. However, I found it slightly disappointing. The effects were mesmerizing and the light saber battles did not disappoint me, but I wound up expecting more from this movie because of the awesome trailer. The ending, I feel, could have definitely been better. I also feel James Earl Jones should have had more to say. He should have had a line or two at the very end when he's staring at the Death Star being built. Ewan McGregor was a perfect choice for Obi Wan Kenobi and certainly enriched the spirit of the film. Overall: decent but it unfortunately did not live up to the standards left by the saga's predecessors.