127 Hours (*****)

Slumdog Millionaire move over, Danny Boyle's latest work also may be his greatest. What began as a skeptical night of going to the movies transformed into an experience I don't think I will ever forget. The story of a man who gets his arm trapped behind a rock somehow manages to become a profound reflection on each and every person's life and the individual paths we all take.

The movie is in many ways similar to Boyle's previous film - Slumdog Millionaire - a colorful, fast-paced, dramatic yet inspiring story of life's worst situations transforming the characters into better people.

Of course, the story mainly focuses on Aron Ralston, an adventurous, albeit naive mountain climber who - of course - find himself in the worst situation: trapped in the middle of no where with no means of help. Any other director (I literally mean ANY other director) would have ruined the film and lost the true meaning of the story. Boyle makes it seem easy, oftentimes with unusual means - split screen, superimpositions, dreams, etc. It's highly stylized to say the least - but it works so well.

I could go on for hours praising each individual aspect - the score (our lovely AR Rahman), the cinematography, the editing, the sound design (!) but it all rides on James Franco's shoulders, and his is a towering performance. It's not necessarily a showy role, but he makes the most out of every little moment and pause - it's the silence that he manages that really holds our attention.

Although the running time is around an hour and a half, the intensity of each moment leaves you pinned - and time seems to stop. You might ask yourself, how could a movie set in a narrow canyon possibly hold our attention for 10 minutes, let alone over an hour? Well - it just does. In many ways it's a story about survival. Our tensions build as we see his water supply get lower and lower and the littlest changes in weather remind us how dangerous it is. At the same time it also manages to be a moving drama, a story about a man reflecting on his past relationships, love affairs, and family ties. If you were about to die, how would you feel about the life you had led thus far?

As far as I'm concerned, this is the best movie I've seen all year. No other movie in recent memory has had such a huge impact on me - physically and emotionally. All the pieces are here, and they all work brilliantly together. In fact, stupendous is probably the best word I can think to use to describe it.

(Awards potential: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Franco), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Original Score, Best Sound Mixing, Best Sound Editing, Best Makeup)

Waiting For Superman (*****)

Waiting For Superman is as good of a documentary I have ever seen. The story focuses on the American public school system - its flaws, its champions, teachers, parents, students. Like any great piece of non-fiction film making, its powerful because it somehow manages to connect the audience with it's subjects, in this case, middle school students just hoping for a proper education.

I was surprised at two things when watching the film. First, how easily the information was presented. Walking in I was somewhat intimidated and possibly even put off by the subject matter. How interesting could learning about schools really be? In all honesty it was engrossing. Ideas are presented clearly and concisely with animation used to help drive in certain points. It was in that regard a very visual story. Second, the decision to focus the story on a handful of students was perfect in regards to the topic. As we learn about the flaws and problems children face in school, we are presented with actual children - kids and their parents trying their hardest to rise up and become successful by any means possible.

As fascinating as the documentary was to watch, ultimately its focus was on our country as a whole. We are raised to believe that America is 'the land of opportunity,' but after watching this I began having second thoughts. Not to spoil anything, but when a little girl who wants to grow up to become a doctor can't simply because her name wasn't pulled out of a hat, then something is wrong. How is it that years and years of political focus on reforming our educational system has had practically no effect at all?

I haven't seen any other documentary made this year yet, but I am almost positive this will remain the best I will see. Go see it immediately!

(Awards potential: Best Documentary, Best Original Song ('Shine'))

Black Swan (Mo****1/2 Jo****1/2)

John says:
Black Swan is like no other movie I have seen this year. It is difficult (if not impossible) to classify into any one genre, and the story remains cryptic and open, from the very first shot to the last. Despite all the mystery I felt after the screening, I can't get it out of my mind - trying to unravel everything that happened, make connections, sort through the plot - and in that regard I would consider the film a huge success.

The movie follows Nina (played by Natalie Portman), who seemingly has worked as a dancer for years but finally gets her break - the coveted lead role in 'Swan Lake.' Lily, a new dancer (played by Mila Kunis) appears, and slowly Nina's world of perfection and repetition is completely jolted off course. The movie could have taken the course of a typical drama, but by graphically illustrating Nina's inner (and outer) transformations, moments become surprisingly horrific. It's a balancing act that the director, Darren Aronofsky, manages to pull off with great ease and an unflinching sense of truth.

In terms of acting, Natalie Portman is brilliant. This could have been a role in which a lesser actor would just act scared and fake tears. Portman manages to bring great depth, playing a part that essentially mirrors the White Swan she portrays on stage. She manages to be both powerful and completely humbled, often times simultaneously. Definitely one of the strongest and most thorough performances of the year. Mila Kunis also deserves praise - one wouldn't expect a star of 'That 70's Show' to provide such a solid performance, but she keeps us guessing from start to finish. Winona Ryder (yes, she's in this movie), playing the part of an aged dancer reaching retirement is completely riveting. Her total screen time can't sum to more than 5 minutes, but her every moment is perfect. Barbara Hershey wraps up the lead cast playing Portman's harsh, oftentimes psychotic mother. In a 'Carrie-esque' fashion, her character hovers over every aspect of Nina's life, There's sympathy to be found in her, yet there is always a sense of unease, too.

There's little resolution to many of the characters, very few moments of revelation, and there's never a sense of a solid basis in reality. How much of what we see is real? How much is imagined? I don't want to provide any spoilers (if that's possible) but I feel like this movie may be a bit more abstract than the average movie-goer may suspect. It's gorgeously photographed and meticulously pieced together, and in many ways it's beautifully effortless like the dancing we see on screen. You have never seen dancing (or anything for that matter) filmed in this way. It's immersive, stunning, completely engrossing.

Darren Aronofsky has created a vast assortment of films, from Requiem For A Dream and The Wrestler. You can feel his presence with Black Swan - the harsh grittiness of the editing, the manic camera work, the focus on characters going through a change, etc.

This is a fascinating, harsh, disturbing, brilliant movie. As dangerous a movie as it is, this movie seems locked for a Best Picture nomination. Aronofsky, too, makes risky movies that don't always sit well with audiences - but his meticulous and startling work here definitely could and should garner him a directing nomination as well. Unlike any other movie this year: a unique, mind-boggling masterpiece.

Maureen says:
Darren Aronofsky creates a new and completely different genre with this film: the psycho-"drorror" thriller... or something. Black Swan is dark, mysterious, and shocking... but in all of the best possible ways. 

The film is centered around ballerina Nina, played by the stunning Natalie Portman. She is perfect in the role; I've almost never seen a role so well-cast, and she does an impeccable job with a difficult and layered part. This slight actress will be a force to be reckoned with at the 2010 Academy Awards. Mila Kunis perfectly complements the innocent Portman and embodies the very definition of a dark temptress. She is at her finest, and it will not be surprising to see her recognized with multiple nominations. Nina's mother - played by Barbara Hershey - is also outstanding. Although secondary to the overall plot, Hershey manages to make Nina's mother the center of attention in each scene, and makes the audience's collective skin crawl progressively more with each appearance.

Filmmaking-wise, this is up there with the year's finest. Dark cinematography, spooky lighting, and edge-of-your-seat editing make this film a thrill ride from beginning to end. I actually found myself physically exhausted by the end of it, having been enthralled and tense the entire way through. The sets and particularly the costumes are beautifully designed and make each scene mesmerizing to watch.

The story itself is a completely unique one, not only filled with symbolism but based almost entirely on it. Completely abstract, surreal, and cryptic... but despite the very nature of the film, it has the audience desperately waiting to see what happens next, regardless of whether it will make sense or not, regardless of whether it will be "real" or not. That being said, some of the artistic liberties may be a bit too liberal... where does one draw the line between symbolism and gratuitous horror? The "shock" factor here, though nearly perfectly executed in nearly every instance, was not always a positive addition to the story. When certain visuals remind you of The Ring, that's where you begin to wonder about the film's overall intent: is it to shock and amaze? Or simply to terrify?

A risky, gritty, disturbing piece... but a story that will stick with you for hours, even days afterward. Certainly not for the faint of heart; but for those looking for a true cinematic "experience," you have come to the right place.

(Awards potential: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress (Portman), Best Supporting Actress (Barbara Hershey, Mila Kunis) Best Original Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design)

The Social Network (Mo***** Jo*****)

John Says:
The Social Network has become a very anticipated film for one reason or another, and early reviews from critics have been absolute raves. Clearly I would not pass on the opportunity to see an advanced screening (and Q&A session with screenwriter Aaron Sorkin and stars Jesse Eisenberg and Armie Hammer!).

My first viewing of the film in the front row of my theater was fascinating, albeit slightly underwhelming. I found the dialogue witty, beautiful photography, but on the whole I thought the concept of a Facebook movie was a bit short-sighted. My second viewing, seen on a smaller screen with no distractions (let's ignore the legalities for a moment) was awe-inspiring. The third - flawless. Here is a great movie with layer upon layer of depth and story. How I didn't recognize the genius during the first viewing remains a mystery, but now I am fully convinced this is one of the strongest films of the year.

The film follows a handful of testimonies and accounts of the various college students responsible for (and allegedly robbed of) the idea of Facebook. The story flows by incredibly quickly in a non-linear fashion as the story descends deeper and deeper into betrayal and greed. Jesse Eisenberg (who strikes me as the poor man's Michael Cera) is utterly shallow and completely riveting in his role. Likewise with Andrew Garfield (our future Spider-man) who gives possibly the strongest (and most sympathetic) performance in the film. Armie Hammer serves a dual role as the Winklevoss twins (through flawless CGI), those who claim to be the victim of intellectual property theft: Facebook. Were they robbed? Or was Zuckerberg's idea truly an original one? It's difficult to tell, especially as the story is told from such a multi-faceted angle. Justin Timberlake wraps up the leading cast with a surprisingly dramatic and believable role.

In terms of the film's story, was surprised at how timeless some of the central themes of betrayal, friendship, and personal gain were. I fully respect the screenwriter, who could have made a cliche, boring, forgettable movie - but managed to make a layered, resonant, albeit fictionalized account of this website and the people who were behind it.

I also give praise to the cinematography and original score. Both are very unconventional for the story at hand, but help so much in creating a unique tone throughout the movie. David Fincher is undoubtedly known for the technicality behind his films, and this one is no exception.

I highly, HIGHLY recommend this film! It's surprisingly deep and is completely fascinating. The story points towards a deeper understanding of today's culture - that as we seemingly get closer and closer to people via the internet, we really are isolating ourselves more and more... Yes, it took me 3 viewings to more fully grasp the genius at work behind this film, and I cannot wait to see it again. One of the year's strongest films by far.

Maureen says:
Going in to see The Social Network, I had low expectations. A movie about Facebook, of all things?! But soon after the film began, I realized this was not a film about Facebook, but a rags-to-riches story of conflict, friendship, success, failure, betrayal, and strength of character. David Fincher, as usual, is hitting on all cylinders, and as such, creates a film that will be a strong contender in the upcoming awards season.

To start, the acting: spot on, to say the least. Jesse Eisenberg has a break-out role as Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook. He makes you simultaneously hate Zuckerberg while cheering for him the whole way through. Strong supporting roles by Justin Timberlake, Armie Hammer, and the up-and-coming (and VERY easy-on-the-eyes) Andrew Garfield. The character development is riveting (credit to screenwriter Aaron Sorkin) and truly makes the film what it is.


In addition to the screenplay and the acting, the film is well-made, with excellent cinematography, unique (but perfect!) scoring, and beautiful sets. I'm not sure if Harvard actually looks they way it's portrayed, but they show it exactly the way 95% of America imagines it looks.


Overall, this is a difficult movie to NOT enjoy. There is drama, comedy, and the perfect amount of intrigue... a unique, compelling, and smart coming-of-age story. Consequently, in thinking about its rating, it is also difficult NOT to give it a perfect score, as it is nearly perfect in every regard. If you haven't seen it, do yourself a favor - get off of Facebook - and go.


(Awards potential: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Eisenberg), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Original Score, Best Cinematography, Best Supporting Actor (Garfield), Best Sound Mixing, Best Sound Editing)

4 Months Left! Movies To Keep In Your Radar...

Can you believe it? The year is already two-thirds of the way done! So far, we haven't seen too many 'Oscar-caliber' movies - but hopefully the upcoming fall/ winter season will finally give 2010 a solid lineup of great films! Here are some movies I think we should keep our eyes on:



THE KING'S SPEECH



What seems to be the current front-runner for the majority of Oscar nominations this year. Colin Firth seems poised for his second consecutive nomination and ideally his first win after his flawless performance last year in 'A Single Man.' The cast looks stellar and the story is both unique and historical. So far critics and audiences have been absolutely raving about the early screenings. Keep your eyes open for this - it's going to be one to watch.


BLACK SWAN



Darren Aronofsky's lack of ANY Oscar nominations for films like Requiem For A Dream and The Wrestler is almost unbelievable. This film looks like it could be a strong contender in multiple categories - possibly previous Oscar-nominee Natalie Portman? The film looks like it has a strong visual style, but will the dark, seemingly fantasy-like premise go over well with Oscar voters? We will have to see...


127 HOURS



Danny Boyle's return to movies after his mammoth achievement with Slumdog Millionaire. Like his previous films, 127 Hours looks like it will be both a visual wonder with a fast-paced plot. It has a lot going for it - true story, Oscar-winning director, James Franco... This movie could be one to beat.


CONVICTION



I honestly don't know what to think of this movie. The cast is amazing - Hilary Swank, Sam Rockwell, Melissa Leo, Mini Driver... The story - allegedly a true one - seems to be both gripping and inspirational. I could see this being either a dud or a complete winner. Interestingly, Annette Bening seems to be a front-runner for Best Actress this year, yet both of her past 2 nominations in the category were lost to Hilary Swank. Could these 2 possibly come head to head yet again? This is an interesting one to watch.


THE SOCIAL NETWORK



Yes, a movie about Facebook doesn't seem like it has much to offer, but early reviews have been complete raves. David Fincher directs, fresh off his Oscar-nomination for Benjamin Button. The cast leaves much to be desired (Justin Timberlake and Jesse Eisenberg don't exactly make the most prestigious movies), but it still has lots of potential, so for now lets just wait.


TRUE GRIT




The trailer is finally out and can we just say... this may or may not be a VERY strong contender this season. The film is made by the Coen brothers and stars Oscar-winner Jeff Bridges in the same leading role that won John Wayne an Oscar in 1969. Could Bridges become only the third actor to win back-to-back Oscars? The Coens' last western was a little film called No Country For Old Men. We think it's safe to say they understand how the genre works. With the Coens, you come to expect quality, and we can't imagine a situation where this will not be the case.


THE FIGHTER

A boxing movie starring Mark Wahlberg. History shows that boxing movies tend to do well, both critically and in terms of accolades (Million Dollar Baby, Raging Bull...) Could this movie follow in those footsteps?


THE TEMPEST

This movie may not end up being the right type of movie, but it has all the right ingredients. The cast includes Helen Mirren, David Strathairn, Djimon Hounsou, Alfred Molina, and Chris Cooper. The source material is the Shakespeare play.