Quick Pic Review

Elegy (2008)

A film filled with beautiful performances, and yet I never felt truly involved. The early scenes in the film speak truths that few films even pretend to address, but the second half descends into the stereotypical hospital melodrama. Penelope Cruz and especially Ben Kingsley are revelatory in their roles. And Patricia Clarkson adds so much life and bitterness to a smaller, yet still pivotal, character. I don’t think the direction is to blame for the overall cold feeling and Isabel Coixet offers much insight into difficult psychological problems, but overall I was somewhat disappointed. The film seemed to lose momentum half way through and never really returned to its early potential.

But seriously, how wonderful is Penelope Cruz? First Vanilla Sky, now Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Volver...let's just say she has a new (huge) fan.

Cloverfield (2008)

Cloverfield

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As my first act of "Blogger God", I shall review what is possibly the most fun film of the year. I have seen the film three times total (two in theatre, one at home), and I love almost everything about it. Almost...

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But first the pros. I'm fine that the characters had little development (who would have time to reminisce in this situation). If you have a problem with that kinda stuff, then you're ridiculous (no offense). The set design is perfection. The monster is horrifying. The ending...somewhat disappointing. Not the depressing final scene (how appropriately un-Hollywood); I actually enjoyed that a lot. But, seriously, these people are machines!!! I mean, a stake to the heart could kill a vampire, but not the flirty, venerable, conflicted Beth...

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In the end, that is all that bothered me. This exercise in creative thinking mixes the uncertainty of the Blair Witch Project with the pure fun of Godzilla, adding a little of The Mist's cynicism. Watch it now!

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My grade: A-