Growing up, one of my favorite things to do was to watch the classic Godzilla movies. A couple of years back, I read how Legendary pictures wanted to reboot Godzilla and present a new movie within the framework of the classic films. Well, here is the first official trailer they have released.
W H O A!
I can not wait to see this on the big screen. By the looks of it a Godzilla film worth of being a Godzilla film!
Link: Godzilla Trailer
Finally finished and posted my movie review for Thor: The Dark World
Go check it out on my movie review site.
Link: Patrick’s Movie Review Site
Wolverine without any shadow of doubt is one of my all time favorite comic book character, one who has had probably the overall most affect upon me. What do I find so engaging and relatable to me about this particular comic book hero? I would say is the fact that he had some traumatic circumstances within his life through which definitely shaped his core personality and character, yet over time and through the help of those around him who care and have much love for him, he was able to overcome the pain and loss which he has suffered.
Ironically enough, it was the very loss, pain and trauma suffered that was the genesis of his mutant abilities. It was his mystifying past that enabled him to be a mentor and father figure to so many. So the character of Wolverine, or Logan as he is often called is one that while seemingly in some fashion one of a complex persona, where by he is often perceived as merely a bruiser and berserker, there is actually quite a lot underneath the character with which to dive into the heart and soul of this particular engaging hero.
I have to first begin my review by saying that I was quite leery of the film when I initially heard that Fox was going to make another Wolverine movie. Unfortunately, the last two previous films to my way of thinking were not very well made. though I loved seeing Gambit! With such a rich and appealing character, a writer and or director could really drill a home run out of the park, for there is be plenty of down and dirty, gritty fighting sequences, coupled with a brooding hero material to draw upon. Perhaps poor directing and or writing choices, or dare I say studio executive decisions, the previous Wolverine films just didn’t “do” it for me sadly, as much as I wanted to really love them.
So, it wasn’t until I happened to catch an interview of the director of the film James Mangold speak about how he wanted this Wolverine to be akin to the film The Outlaw Josey Wales that I began to get excited about this film.
Two things to mention here. First, James Mangold has directed some really excellent movies, such as Cop Land, Girl, Interrupted and Walk the Line. So my hopes were certainly raised by the fact that a good, solid director was attached to the film. Secondly, when Mangold referred to the The Outlaw Josey Wales (which is an excellent book if you can find a copy) in terms of the overall motif or style of the film, meaning there would be a certain gravity and grittiness of overall theme and stylization, I was fully on board!
So what is the verdict? Claws or no claws?
Claws it is!
I was really not only satisfied by the film, I was happily surprised by how much I really enjoyed myself! This is finally the Wolverine film I have waited for for years now. It was well directed, well written and well acted! Hugh Jackman is spot on as Wolverine/Logan. This is the sixth film in which he has played the role of Wolverine, so he certainly is intimately familiar within the character. He certainly should be commended for not taking the easy way out, as oftentimes is the case with certain actors/actresses who have played the same role over several incarnations. Not only can you clearly see the intense regimen that he took upon himself so as to be as authentically believable and faithful to the nature of this particular part, but also one can gleam the respect that he has for the integrity of the character and for the fans who cherish Wolverine. One last thing that I would like to add about the faults I have with the previous Wolverine films, none of it rests upon Mr. Jackman himself. He obviously puts everything he has into his films, regardless of the scope or type of film. For this he should be commended!
The story is what is one of the most critical elements of any film obviously and I can say without any reserve that this story delivers! What potentially can make a Wolverine story tricky (as well as Superman) is that for every practical purpose he is invulnerable by way of his rapid healing factor and adamantium infused skeleton. The interesting take that this film brings to light is Logan’s vulnerability is within his psyche, for having lived well over two hundred years through which he has seen and experienced personal tragedy and detrimental loss on a grand scale which has left scars upon his soul.
The film opens with an incredible and dare I say breathtaking imagery of the atomic bomb destroying Nagasaki. Watching silently as the American bomber was slowly, though inevitably making its way across the screen, the horror of knowing what was going to take place truly sunk in as I sat riveted to this initial imagery taking place before me. I even audibly caught myself saying out loud, “oh no” as the scene played itself out. It is within these inauspicious circumstances that the film places us, so right off the bat, I knew this was going to be a much different Wolverine film!
We see Logan imprisoned as a Japanese POW, who through an act of humanity is released from his “cell”, only to return the favor which saves the Japanese officer named Yashida. It is Yashida who thus witnesses the regenerative abilities of Logan, as he takes the brunt of the atomic blast in shielding him from harms way. Thus the story is set up from the events that transpired within Logan’s past. As a side note, I could not help but think how at the same time within the “Marvel Universe”, in another part of the world, Captain America was battle Nazi’s and the Red Skull.
Fast forwarding to our contemporary time, Logan is living within the wilderness of the Canadian woodlands. Interesting enough, I reckon that many within the audience never realized that Wolverine is actually a Canadian superhero, not an American one. It is there within the solitude of nature that he seeks the solace of being alone, where he attempt to leave behind the heavy weight upon his heart of having suffered lifetimes of pain and loss. Yet such is not to be the case, for he is sough out by Yashida’s “servants” Yukio in order to bring the Wolverine before her master so as to thank him for his saving his life one last time as his dying request.
Things obviously are not what they seem, for without giving away any plot points or spoilers, Wolverine finds himself weakened, so that his innate healing factor is not as responsive as it under normal circumstances. Coupled with the fact that there are enemies who threaten Yashida’s granddaughter Mariko, who Logan finds himself falling in love with, there are a lot of elements which blend all very nicely indeed so as to make for not only a great adventure in film, but a compelling one as well!
In terms of the characters present within the film, I very much enjoyed the character of Yukio, who over the course of the film becomes not only a protector of sorts to Logan, but also a cherished true friend. She was to me one of the most intriguing and riveting characters, for she was both deadly, but also deeply empathetic for she like Logan had her own past filled with loss and pain, to which they were able to respect and relate to one another.
In terms of the action, this film defiantly delivers, for the claws are out! There are great action sequences and visuals, one of the primary highlights is a fight between Logan and the “bad guys” all of which takes place on top of one of the bullet trains of Japan. It goes without saying that the bullet train also happens to be traveling at breathtaking speeds!
The character of Wolverine is all about action, thankfully there is plenty to be had, though it is thoughtfully accomplished by way of a well paced story. One of my own personal pet peeves of contemporary films these days is the rapid and breakneck pace or flow of a film, where by there is hardly any “breathing” time given to an audience in oder to be allowed to take in what is transpiring on the screen. Thankfully, this was not the case here, as it was in say Star Trek Into Darkness.
Overall, I could not be more pleased with the film. Finally, there is a Wolverine film worthy of the character. All who were involved in making this particular film a reality should be quite proud of their efforts and of the final product. I for one certainly hope that if there is another Wolverine film, one which is as well crafted and executed as this!
One final note, you must stay seated while the credits are on screen, for there is mid-credits scene involving Professor Charles Xavier and Magneto. Both I and my buddy Mark where sitting upright in our seats, totally stoked as to what was transpiring before us!
This is what going to the movies is all about!
There are times when going to an opening night showing, with the buzz and energy of the crowd really presents a fun, anticipatory and kinetic environment that truly enhances the experience of viewing the film. Then there are those occasions when a film is best served with an approach of one standing before a work of art quietly, taking in all aspects that are offered to the viewer.
Unlike my going to see Iron Man 3, or Star Trek Into Darkness on opening nights, I went yesterday to see Man of Steel at the first showing, after it has been released for a couple of weeks. My reasoning for this different approach was so that I could sit within a more quiet and subdued environment so as to really take in everything that the film had to offer. I took the same approach when the Dark Knight Rises was released. The reason why is simple, for these films which deal with such iconic characters from my youth warrant a much more deferential approach.
Going into the film, I knew that this was not going to be in any way, shape or form the Christopher Reeve Superman of my youth. I still can easily recall the night I saw that film back when I was eight, for my dear family friend Mark from Boston came out to visit his family and took me out to dinner, after which we saw Superman. The Richard Donner directed Superman film certainly made a lasting impression upon me when I saw it. Superman was noble, virtuosos and altruistic. I was so curious to see what qualities Superman would posses within Man of Steel.
Man of Steel while grounded very much within our present societal world, still shows the relevance of who Superman is, as well as the inherent qualities with which he abides by. Yesterday, I happened to read a review of the film which held the position that Superman is no longer pertinent to our present day experiences and particular issues, that somehow the general movie going public will not relate to the character of Superman, being that we are so jaded and or find it hard to relate to one who truly does stand for Truth, Justice and dare I say the “American” way. I would hold that Superman is all the more relevant for the very reason as to the way national and world events have played out, let alone the profoundly cultural issues that we are faced with, which easily shows forth a definite hunger and profound need for the very ideals that Superman stands for, represents and embodies.
Man of Steel as an origins for Superman I felt works on so many different levels. The score of the film is where I want to begin, for I purchased the extended soundtrack when it was released, so as to allow myself the opportunity with which to really listen to the different themes and variations extensively. Music is so important a facet in terms of establishing and conveying the impressions of a film, that I wanted to start with the sound of the Man of Steel, rather than watch it unfold upon the screen first.
One of the cool treats that was included was an additional disk of music which represented the musical concepts or stylization with which Hans Zimmer would incorporate into the film. It goes without saying that the score goes in a completely different direction than the John Williams Superman score. In fact, it is as far removed from Williams iconic theme as can be. Both scores are exactly and precisely what each film necessitates musically. I am, in fact listening to the Man of Steel soundtrack while writing this review. It is a superb, truimphent and worthy score for Superman.
The film pace was one aspect that I was concerned with going into the film. Whereas one of the major issues that I had with Star trek Into Darkness was the relentless, nonstop pace of the film, leaving me little time to metaphorically catch my breath and to be allowed to take in what was transpiring upon the screen. My hope was that the director Zack Snyder would allow for the a fitting balance between action and “story/character time”. Thankfully, I felt that there was a good balance between both story/character time and the flow of the action. Even though this was a film primarily about Kal-El/Clark Kent, I came away with a good sense of other characters motivations, personalities and their sense of perspective, which I would attribute to good acting, good directing and a good script.
Much could be said about the various actors/actresses within the film. Henry Cavill was spot on as the Man of Steel. I remember watching some videos of him at the SD Comic Con talking about the film and his approach to the icon figure of Superman and I was impressed by both his demeanor and his thoughtful responses. My gut told me then that he would nail the role and nail he did! I really appreciated the manner in which the character of Superman progressed and matured over the course of the film, from when he was a boy questioning who and why he is, to watching him on the road to self discovery and acceptance of his role and mission in life.
One side note which I wanted to address was the obvious allusions to Superman as a Christ/Moses figure. I listened to one particular podcast in which the hosts reviewed the film and went at length basically ridiculing and deriding that particular motif of Superman within the film. From my perspective, one which is very much grounded within faith in Christ, I felt that the “symbolism” and “representationalism” of Superman as a Christ figure is appropriate for who and what the character embodies. There are a few scenes within the film which I thought were well executed and apt for what was transpiring with the character of Superman. It was refreshing to see the filmmakers embrace that inherent characteristic and nuance of the character.
Michael Shannon as General Zod was tremendous! Perfectly executed, he was a believable villain, who classically did not seem himself as a villain per se, but as one who was to fulfill his duty at whatever the cost and direction it would take. I was really impressed by his command of the role.
Russell Crowe is one of my all time favorites actors. Interesting trivia, he is also one of Hentry Cavill’s favorites as well. His presence in the film as Jor-El was perfectly cast, for only one such as Crowe could carry the mix of dignity, ruggedness, gravity and paternal nature that is called for with this father figure.
Then there is Kevin Costner and Diane Lane as Ma and Pa Kent. I very much liked the chemistry of the two playing Clark’s Earthly, adoptive parents. As one who is adopted, there were a few moments within the film that I thought were quite moving and poignant, in particular when a young Clark is questioning who he is and the relationship of his parents to himself. When Costner delivers the line, “I am your father”, it very much sparked an emotional response within. Another later scene was when Clark was arguing with his father and says that they are not his real parents. I laughed to myself, for I have had those exact same tiffs with my adoptive parents growing up. Yet, the reality is for Clark (as well as for myself) that they very much are his parents. The anguish and agony of Clark witnessing the death of Pa Kent was visceral for me.
What was really credible and compelling to watch was the distinct manner and way in how both Crowe and Costner were equally Superman’s father and how each enacted what it meant to be a father.
Amy Adams was a good fit for the role of Lois Lane. She came across as likable and not overbearing thankfully. She had a good mix of intelligence, resourcefulness and pluckiness, without coming across as too presiding.
I really enjoyed both Christopher Meloni as Colonel Hardy and Richard Schiff as Dr. Hamilton. Even though they had more minor parts per se, I really enjoyed the screen time they had and felt their characters were well played and added nicely to the storyline. It was refreshing to see these “human” characters also take part in saving the world and making the sacrifice that they did.
Lastly, in terms of actor is Laurence Fishburne who portrays Perry White, the Editor-in-Chief of the Daily Planet. Like Crowe, Fishburne is one of my favorite actors. Who remembers him in Red Heat and Pee-wee’s Playhouse? Without giving away a spoiler, the scene where he is with the two reporters of the Daily Planet towards the end of the film and how he shows forth his resolve, stateliness and humanity I thought was griping and powerful! I certainly hope he has a larger role in the next film!
One of the awesome aspects of the film is finally seeing Superman cut lose and go to town in terms of his abilities and powers. For the longest time, I have wanted to see Superman “Rock Em Sock Em” in a movie, where we can see all of the awesomeness of the comic action finally on the big screen. That was one of the things which made Avengers so cool to see! Superhero’s on the big screen doing what superhero’s do and it looks authentic and epic. Well, not to give away any spoilers, but Man of Steel delivers, repeatedly. The fight sequences between Superman and General Zod really do pack a wallop!
The final fight between Superman and General Zod is the very essence of a battle royal!
While sitting in my seat, it certainly made me quite aware of all of the collateral damage that takes place, let alone all of the injury and unfortunate death of so many. This is a film that in one sense is grounded very much in “reality” even though it is within the guise of a comic book “world”. There certainly can be a debate about the “destruction” wrought within the film, though suffice to say, I believe that it was appropriate for what was transpiring in terms of the fight between Superman and General Zod.
During these scenes there are some easter eggs references to Lex Luthor and to Wayne Enterprise, which was gnarly to catch! Oh, before I forget to mention, there was even a polar bear earlier on in the film! I will let the reader look up the significance of that one!
Returning to the final fight between Superman and General Zod, I believe that it played out to the logical conclusion for which it did. Without giving away any spoilers per se, it was direct, visceral and appropriate for what the scene called for. I commend the director for taking possibly a more edgier approach to that particular moment and in how Superman reacts when faced with really of having no alternative other than the choice he makes.
Overall, I am really beyond pleased with Man of Steel. It is the Superman I have wanted to see since I was a youth. It is obviously distinct and quite different than say the Christopher Reeve Superman, but I believe that there is a place for both films. It is interesting to reflect upon the differences of both film, but suffice to say, I content that each film is in direct relationship to the time (and age) of which it was released.
I certainly hope that we get to see the continuation of Zack Snyder vision of the Man of Steel. We need more than ever the inspiration and virtues of what Superman represents. If only we could embody these qualities in our everyday lives would the world be filled with many more real, genuine heroes.
I have been on a roll with going to the movies in recent weeks. It seems to me to be either feast or famine in terms of what I want to see at the movie theater. There is no denying that summer movies barrage is upon us, though as always I am inherently selective as to what I will see. One determining factor is definitely the cost of going to the movies. Between the price of a ticket and then the price of a popcorn, it really eats into the wee little piggy bank! I love my popcorn, so I usual go for a large bucket and make sure I get my free refiles over the course of the film, so that it works out to cost me around $2.50 a go around. Ha!
The latest film that I saw was a special double feature of Star Trek and Star Trek Into Darkness Wednesday night with two buddies of mine. Just as a preface to the show, we went and had a grand meal at Kabuki! I am not one for sushi actually, I wish I was for I know I would love it if I didn’t like the taste of it. Regardless, I was most happy enjoying some delicious shrimp and vegetable tempura, along with generous helpings of both saki and Kirin beer. Good food and even better company as I am want to declare!
Once in our cozy seats, which were perfectly situated within the center of the theater, always a pleasant happenstance, we began to discuss all manner of topics, in particular Burning Man. Of course, you would be correct in ascertaining that I had my bucket of popcorn in hand! Soon, the lights dimmed and we were ready for the nights entertainment.
First up was the 2009 Star Trek film, which I enjoyed. I saw it in the theaters when it was released and was pretty happy with it. What was really nice about watching it upon the big screen was the fact that the events, story lines and characters were fresh in mind for when Star Trek Into Darkness played next.
To jump right into the matter at hand, I will start with what I liked about the film. Visually, it was beautiful to watch. The overall imagery of the film was quite a grand spectacle. What caught my eye the most within this particular aspect were the different colors and hues used thought out the film. The bright reds of the tropical island, the distinct greys of the city, the visually stunning tones of the atmospheric environments was a beautiful, breathtaking spectacle to take in.
The musical score by Michael Giacchino is first rate and excellently crafted. The pensive and introspective piano playing which is played before the catastrophic events that take place in London sealed it for me! The grand scale of sounds that slowly builds and then erupts into the lavish and bold theme music of what you would expect to hear from a film of this scale. Last year, Giacchino composed one of my favorite film scores to date, that being John Carter of Mars. You may recall his score for the show Lost as well, which was hauntingly beautiful!
I loved seeing Peter Weller, talk about a happy surprise! Can someone PLEASE make the sequel to Buckaroo Banzai! I have been waiting all my life for Buckaroo Banzai Against the World Crime League, is that asking too much???
SPOLER ALTER-DON’T READ FURTHER-THERE “BE” SPOILERS!!!!!
Now for what I felt didn’t work for me.
Having seen Star Trek 2, The Wrath of Khan when it came out in back in 1982, this current film was a bit off putting seeing the conflict redone between the crew of the Enterprise and Khan Noonien Singh. I knew going in that Benedict Cumberbatch was portraying Khan. When the time comes in the film when he reveals himself, I was very much like “Cool! Bring it!” But somewhere, somehow it felt flat to me the more I watched the events unfold throughout the film. While Cumberbatch does an admiral job, it just didn’t seem to me that this was, in fact Khan. He seemed underused. The best analogy I can provide is seeing an SSC Ultimate Aero in the slow lane on the freeway. This just didn’t feel like Khan to me, something was gravely missing.
Ricardo Montalban will forever and always be Khan. Besides the clearly evident fact that his performance will ever be etched within my mind at the tender age of twelve, I think it has to do more so with the subtle nuances that he brought to the role. There is a certain natural refinement and aged quality that he brings, a certain classicalism to the portrayal with which Montalban exudes, where by the younger Cumberbatch just does not have. It is akin to a fine wine, with age it greatly improves in taste, flavor and body.
An interesting trivia fact that i learned is that Shatner and Montalban never filmed any scenes together. Think about that for a moment. At no point within the film did they ever have any direct contact with one another and yet the chemistry on screen between these two clearly locked in a battle of wits, played out much like the Miltonian chess matches of Karpov and Kasparov. There was, for me, never any real sense of some grand, monumentally overwhelming resounding danger per se from Cumberbatch’s Khan.
Perhaps it has to do with the writing or perhaps the directing, but one has to remember that the history of this genetically engineered “Nietzcheionian Uberman” at one point ruled a quarter of the Earth. There is a grandeur, a larger than life to Khan inherently that failed to come across to me by way of his portrayal in the current film.
Who would I have liked to play Khan you ask? I propose Javier Bardem. Let that sink in for a moment. If you have not seen Skyfall, stop reading this post and immediately go rent it. Better yet, go buy it! Sitting here ruminating upon the idea of Bardem taking on the role of Khan would be awesome to see! He has the depth of range and inherent nuance to be the Khan in all his full villainous resplendence.
I think too the death of Kirk, a clear juxtaposition of the death of Spock from The Wrath Of Khan left me greatly wanting. What made the scene so powerful and moving between Shatner and Nimoy is that there is a this very tangible reality of there being a genuine life long friendship. It is etched upon their faces, the nuance of countless adventures together, as well as shared conflicts and perils of exploration and many missions of space travel. The scene was believable to me.
Watching the death of Kirk unfold within the current film, it left me feeling unemotionally disconnected. It was simply too soon to play that particular card so to speak. I believe for it to be believable, there needs to be a much longer fermentation and deep rootedness of the friendship between Kirk and Spock to take place. It has not been established long enough to come across as the emotionally impacting event that it is meant to be. Perhaps I am being overly critical, but to my way of thinking, Khan and the death of Kirk would be much better suited much further down the line of the new Star Trek cannon of films, where there would be more of a weathered sense of years of serving together and the deep bonds that would be fused as a result.
When discussing my thoughts upon the film with one of my buddies who just saw it tonight, he took my lack of enthusiasm of the overall aspect of the film to be due to my not “being a Trekkie”. I would respectfully disagree with that assessment. If anything, I would consider myself more akin to a classic “Trekkie”, for I content that it has to do with my admiration and love of what the original cast and filmmakers did so well, that there are clearly elements that are lacking for me within the latest film.
Putting it into perspective, I much more enjoyed the recent Star Trek films than the recent Star War films. Those don’t even exist for me. Absolutely dreadful and dare I say embarrassing to watch!
Overall, I enjoyed the film and I would very much like to see the further adventures of the crew of the Enterprise. It is just that in a very practical fashion of the film, some things clicked, some things did not, simple as that.
Next film I am looking forward to is Fast & Furious 6…until then, phasors set to stun.
Last week Iron Man 3 opened in theaters. As a “birthday” present to myself, I wanted to attend the midnight IMAX showing of the film. I asked a few friends if they were up to the misadventure, but sadly all said they needed their sleep due to work obligations or just didn’t want to be bothered. Undeterred, I excitedly looked forward to experience another chapter of the Marvel vision of Tony Stark. I made sure to take a panda nap during the late afternoon, so I would be well rested and ready for my little escapade.
Arriving at the theater early, I was informed by the gentleman who took my ticket that I was to stand at the designated spot further down the way, where those who were here for the midnight showing where to wait in line. I was in fact the very first in line! Thankfully, I brought my iPhone with me and happily texted several friends who were well cozy and snug in their bed as to the events thus far. Several of the theater workers walked past me and smiled as they meticulously swept the carpet for any lose popcorn kernels or any other such items that had found there way upon the floor. I mentioned to one how nice it was to see such a clean and well looked after theater, that I for one appreciated their efforts, which might otherwise seem somewhat insignificant or a drudgery to do. The young worker beamed by the fact that I had noticed and said “thank you”.
After around twenty minutes or so had passed, several others had joined me in line. There was some uncertainly as to wait at the designated spot as I was told, or to hang out in front of the specific theater section, being that all seats were preordained. Eventually, one of the managers came over and asked everyone to kindly take a spot in line, my hunch had paid off it seemed, for now there was somewhat a scramble to get in line.
Striking up a conversation with the band of people standing by me, we happily discussed a wide range of topics dealing with super heroes, film, comics, actors and directors, as well as sharing our enthusiasm for Iron Man 3!
Eventually, the time had come and the manager alerted with a big smile that it was time to let us within the theater. I shook hands with my new found friends saying how nice it was to meet everyone and gave them Matt and Pat Show cards and told them, “Don’t Listen!”.
I was greeted by an user who kindly asked if I needed any assistance finding my seat, which I responded by saying that I think I was good and asked how he was tonight. He replied he was doing really well, excited that Iron Man was finally opening!
As I was moving down the isle to take my seat, which was perfectly situated in the center of the screen, I overheard a girl some rows up ask her friend what song was playing via the theater large speakers. I chimed in by saying, “The track from Inception”. She called down a “thank you” and I took my seat.
The movie opens with Tony Stark doing a voice over, relating how the current situation he find himself within initially came to play. It is an interesting way to open the film, for the circumstances which transpire throughout film take place by way of the aftermath of the Avengers, though there are aspects of Tony’s past which are to haunt him in the present, which indeed shape events upon a global scale.
I thought momentarily how many within the audience picked up that subtle nuance of the voice over, for after the end credits it is finally revealed who Tony Stark is speaking with. I won’t give anyway any spoiler as to who it was, but when I saw individual, I immediately yelled out a cheer and raised my fist in a triumphant pump shake!
I have read from different internet sites various audience comments concerning the film. It seems there is no middle ground in terms of the reaction that viewers are left with. Either they love it, or they hate it. I for one very much enjoyed the film! I believe the reason why some walk out disappointed in the film is that it is not “Avengers”, which is completely unfair and an unrealistic expectation to have going in to watch Iron Man 3.
This is a film that strips away all elements of support and help that were the case within Avengers and here it is all about Tony Stark not only coping with the ramifications of the events from Avengers, but also of the reality that he is faced in terms of his relationship with Pepper and how to co exist if you will with the many “suits” of his creation. How does Tony Stark comes to terms with who he is and with those he loves in relationship with being Iron Man.
Shane Black, the writer and director of the film, who is known for his wit and daft exchanged of dialogue does not disappoint! The verbal exchanges between characters throughout the film added a level of sophistication by way of dialogue which heightened what was taking on screen. Yes, there were very cool visual effects and movie magic galore, yet the heart of the story is about a man who has had these incredible life changing events and how he deals and copes with the ramifications of it all.
It is a super hero movie with a very human element to it. The actors and actress all were superb. Robert Downey Jr. IS Tony Stark. I certainly hope that he reprises his role in future Iron Man films, for he lends a believability to the character that other actors I do not think would be able to bring. He has had a past of excesses and debauchery, while having a genuine gift of talent. Similarity, he has been reduced to nothing, while having the gumption to come through to the other side so to speak, much like Tony Stark has had to. I want to see more of this character and more of Robert Downey Jr. portraying him.
Don Cheadle was finally Rhodes for me this film. The interplay that he has with Tony feels like the old friend that he is. It wasn’t until the very end of Iron Man 2 that I had a glimpse of that relationship, so to see the organic growth of it over the course of this film was most welcome.
Guy Pearce is always spot on in whatever he is in. I remember watching LA Confidential and thinking to myself this guy is good! I won’t give any an elements of his character per se, other than to say he was well cast!
Rebecca Hall is beautiful! I am in love! Nuff Said!
Jon Favreau as Happy Hogan rocked! He was a lot of fun to watch on screen!
Gwyneth Paltrow played Pepper to a T. She has this character down pat and really helps to make believable the interplay between her character and Robert Downey Jr. I liked the aspects that were brought in to add some new elements to her character and to the relationship that she has with Tony.
Finally, Sir Ben Kingsley! WoW! This film is a prime example as to why he is such an extraordinary actor, for he very much steals the movie whenever he is on screen. His portrayal of The Mandarin is beyond awesome! He manages to grip and hold ones attention by way of his subtle mannerisms and voice inflections which he infuses into his character. Again, without giving away any spoilers, there is an added element to his character which comes out of left field and what a field it is! Suffice to say, he was epic!
Bottom line, go see this film. It has all of the elements that are important to me, a good story, a strong script, well executed acting, with elements of humor, action and dare I say depth of character. Lastly, a well crafted film by way of solid direction.
Go in with an open mind, so as to not unduly influenced by way of the Avengers film and I contend that you will very much enjoy Iron Man 3!
As a side note, I was fortunate enough to obtain one of the limited editions IMAX posters as shown below for seeing it opening night. What a cool birthday present indeed!
Last night, I met up with my buddies Josh and Jeff, who brought along two of there friends William and Aaron who I met for the first time and in we went to watch Oblivion in IMAX. When the trailer for Star Trek Into Darkness came on, Jeff shut his eyes and put his hands over his ears, so he would be as sensory deprived as possible, so as to not see or hear anything of the film which would lessen his experience of seeing it for the first time when it is released. Josh took a great pic of that moment!
Oblivion was a great sic-fi film, for it had all of the elements which for me made it really enjoyable to watch. The story first and foremost was engaging, with a few plot twists which I thought were both interesting and intriguing. The cinematography and visuals were both really cool and expertly crafted, while the effects were believable and realistic.
In terms of acting, Tom Cruise did a really good job. He really “acted” within this film and made his character both a credible and sympathetic “everyman”, as well as thoughtful hero. Not since The Last Samurai did I feel Cruise really engaged me as a viewer, though to be fair, he has done films since then that I have enjoyed. My point being that he brought it home in this one.
Music for me is a very crucial aspect of the film, for it helps to set the tone and evaluate the mood of the film. As I watch a film, I very much listen carefully and attentively as to the manner in which the film score works to solidify the overall fabrication of the movie. The film composer, M83 did a beautiful job with the score, balancing and harmonizing the futuristic atmosphere via a layered synthesizer approach that is a gorgeous soundtrack. I heard a few tracks previously, so I knew going in, I would very much enjoy it, thought I was quite curious to see how it worked with the visuals of the film. It blended perfectly and effectively. Needless to say, I went and bought a copy of the soundtrack after seeing the film, so as to add to my cd collection.
My recommendation: Go see the film, in IMAX if your able to, for it very much lends itself to the scale of an IMAX screen in terms of the beautiful visuals of the film. If you are a fan of the sic-fi genre, you will, I believe be quite happy with what director Joseph Kosinski has brought to the screen. I look forward to more of his films in the future!
As a lover of the medium of Film, which I can attribute to being exposed to the movies with my dad and mom. I will never forget seeing the Temple of Doom with my mom, or watching a Bridge Too Far with my dad and family friend Tony. It was when I was a senior in high school, that I was able to take a senior elective on film, which was taught by the greatest of all the great teachers I have ever had, Mr. Baldetti. He has since moved away to live with his brother due to his failing health now in his old age, but he and I would go to the movies together every so often.For me, when I would look over and see the look upon his face of enjoying the movies with complete rapture brought me joy in every sense of the word.
I came across a great you tube video entitles ” Here I come: The “Walking Towards the Camera.” It perfectly highlights a simple, but effective technique that filmmakers employ to tell their story to us. So sit back and have a watch. I bet next time you are watching a film and you see this technique being employed, you will think just how cool film can be!
Today is the anniversary of one of my favorite films! John Carter of Mars came out last year, based on one of my most beloved books series written by Edgar Rice Burroughs. If you have not had a chance to watch it, I totally recommend it for your viewing pleasure! Go grab some family and friends, get the popcorn all popped and take a trip to Barsoom!
(Help in getting a sequel made…join the JC Fan Page)
Tony Stark is back! I have been looking forward to this since I read that Shane Black was involved as the writer and director! It goes without saying that Robert Downey Jr. will be fun and engaging to watch and excited to see Don Cheadle back as Rhodes. It wasn’t until the very last scene in Iron Man 2 where Stark and Rhodes interact with one another that I felt they indeed life long buddies, that I bought into Cheadle as Rhodes. Cheadle is a great actor, so totally pumped to see how he and Downey further their relationship. Lastly, Sir Ben Kingsley is playing Mandarin!!!!! He certainly is not playing Gandhi in this role!
