Jersey Boys

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This film is based off the musical with the same title. It is also loosely based off the life story of Frankie Valli The Four Seasons band. Four Young Men (Frankie Vallie, Bob Gaudio, Nick Massi, and Tommy DeVito) from New Jersey decide to form a rock band in the 1960's. With a new talented song writer, they become the iconic band of the era.

This film was directed and produced by Clint Eastwood. Interestingly, Eastwood does not star, or make an appearance, in this film. I can not say how truthful any of this story is about the actual events that happened within the band. But, I can say that what works on stage does not always work for theaters. It remains the familiar story of disgruntled youth stumbling onto fame and then massive trouble. The stage play is a musical, but the film is not. There are some small musical moments that give the film some harmony, but it is very fleeting. The story is told through a narrator, and the different perspective's that each band member has. This makes for a very convoluted story that has no end game. Each character has different concerns, and with each perspective change the story itself changes. Since it is told from various perspectives, each character offers different information. A lot of this information is unnecessary, but cool to know. The use of gangsters is unique, but highly unnecessary. They are a mere tool to easily progress the story. There are no pertinent secondary characters. The few that should matter are not given enough time on screen to be of any importance.  Which is unfortunate since the main characters aren't given the opportunity to shine as they needed to. This film is also meant to take place in the 1960's, but so much of it feels like the 1950's. There is a show of time progression, but it still feels trapped in a 1950's era. This is the first time these actors have been brought to a massive large screen audience. John Lloyd Young played the role of Frankie Valli. He looked great on screen. There were a lot of moments where his very emotional acting was over shadowed by limited screen time. Vincent Piazza played the role of Tommy DeVito. This character was established as the bad boy villain. But when there could've been a resolution, or a fight, his character just disappears. Erich Bergen played the role of Bob Gaudio. He was good on screen as a supporting actor to Young. Michael Lomenda played the role of Nick Massi. Unfortunately, he was a very unmemorable actor and character.

I give this film 3 out of 5 stars! It has a great basis for musical life story, but it's narrative choice makes it a very convoluted story.

This film can be found on Netflix DVD.

Answer to last blog: Actor Ryan Potter, Big Hero 6, plays the role of Mike Fukanaga in the television show Supah Ninjas.

What was Clint Eastwood's first directed film? 

Gran Torino

Mystic River

Play Misty for Me

Firefox

Big Hero 6

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This film is based of a Marvel comic of the same name. After he suffers the loss of his brother (Tadashi), robotics prodigy Hiro Hamadar discovers the that a masked man is responsible for his death. With the assistance of his newly found college friends, and his brother's medical project (Baymax) Hiro creates a superhero team that will defeat the masked villain.

This film was directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams. This film bridges the gap for little children and superhero film. Disney has taken advantage of its newly acquired rights to create their second animated superhero's film. It showcases a lot of advances in technology that make-up their super hero abilities. The story of Baymax and the teen hero is very predictable and a familiar origin story that is enjoyable to watch. It is full of well paced unexpected heart, humor, and action. It'll keep the adults invested and the kids entertained. This film is also a good representation of handling loss. The action keeps the film from becoming too dull, and is enjoyable to watch. The character's on screen emotions drive this film, and they are each enjoyable to watch. Ryan Potter voiced that character Hiro. He was great playing the troubled and intelligent youth. He really drove the film into what it needed to be. Scott Adsit voiced the character of Baymax. He was adorable and hilarious to watch on screen. He made the film unique and fully likable.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars! It is the newest Disney classic that all families can enjoy.

The animated short, Feast, that appears before the film begins is an treat to watch. It is made for dog lovers everywhere who know the pain of food sharing. Through the food, and dog's eyes, it tells a surprising love story. 

I give this short 5 out of 5 stars!

This film, and short, can be found in theaters.

Answer to last blog: Actress Francis O'Connor played the role of Fanny Price in Mansfield Park.

Que: what character does Ryan Potter play in the television show Supah Ninjas?

Owen Reynolds
Mike Fukanaga
Yamato
Martin Fukanaga

Mansfield Park (1999)

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This film is loosely based of a novel, of the same title, written by Jane Austen. Fanny Price is sent to live with her wealthy relatives, the Bertram's, at the age of ten. She is raised as an outcast to the society the family is accustomed, but taught how to function within it. Years later, Price is caught between her hopeless love and the expectancy of a proper marriage. During this delicate time the family is also facing their hidden turmoils.

This film was directed by Patricia Rozema. This film differ's from the book that everyone is familiar with. Some new ideas have been added (like slavery) and some aspect's of Austen's life has been incorporated into the main character. I'm sure there are other changes so die hard fans of the novel will hate it. This film really is an intelligent pun on women in society (during the 1880's), and the effects of rising in society. The hopeless romanticism will be too much for male audiences, but it's sharp wit will make up for it. Although this film really does make a statement about women and their hopeless hearts. The use of certain concepts makes you question the characters, and not always in a good way. Adding in Price's storytelling moments was a nice touch, but it was unnecessary. It does offer some insight into this timid character though. Frances O'Connor played the role of Fanny Price. She was great in the role of this timidly outspoken character. The film itself does aid in showing the battling emotions of this character. Johnny Lee Miller played the role of Edmund Bertram. He was great in his supporting role. 

I give this film 4 out of 5 stars! It might not be suitable for all audiences, but it has a great romantic story. 

Look for this film in your Netflix instant que list.

Answer to last blog: Brian 'Astro' Bradley, Earth to Echo, is featured in Red Band society.

Que: Who played young Fanny Price?

Hannah Taylor Gordon

Elizabeth Eaton

Elizabeth Earl

Tayla Gordon

Earth to Echo

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A highway construction team is tearing up Mulberry Woods in Las Vegas. Tuck, Munch, and Alex are a trio of friends who decide to spend their last day together finding the location that their malfunctioning phones have been indicating. At that location in the desert, they discover an alien life form, and decide to help it escape Earth.

This film was directed by Dave Green. This film could've been a lot better had Disney not sold the film rights. Anyway, this film is told through it's narration from the perspective of a teenage boy. The film is presented like someone is editing lots of handheld footage. There are some parts shown from Echo's perspective (the alien) without any explanation of how this footage was obtained. Having the story told like this makes it uninteresting and annoying to watch. As adorable as watching the tiny robotic alien is, most adult audiences would not enjoy this film. The story is also very unabashedly reminiscent to the classic E.T. The computer animation was done extremely well, and made the film feel authentic. The robot effects were impressive. The characters were good, but not well thought out. They are also the very familiar kid dynamic. Teo Halm played the role of Alex. He was the typical popular kid full of heart, but did not do much to stand out. Astro (Brian 'Astro' Bradley) played the role of Tuck. This is the narrator who is treated as a sidekick for the film's story. He is even given a sidekick name. He might not have been the best choice for the narrator, but he was decent in the role. Reese Hartwig played the role of Munch. He was the typical nerd who fell in with the popular kids. Ella Wahlestedt played the role of Emma. She would've been a good, or decent, character if the film had not been narrated by a teenage boy. 

I give this film 2 out of 5 stars! This film has great graphics and an adorable little robot, but nothing else makes this film worth the watch.

Answer to last blog: Jonathan Demme directed Silence of the Lambs (1991).

Que: Which of these teenagers actors is in a television show called Red Band Society?

Reese Hartwig

Ella Wahlestedt

Teo Halm

Brain 'Astro' Bradley

Manhunter (1986) and Red Dragon (2002): A Comparison Review

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"Do you dream much, Will?"

Okay, this is my first time writing a comparison review on the original and the remake. I figure, I'll review them separately at first and then finish with the comparison. These films are both based off Thomas Harris' novel entitled Red Dragon. Will Graham is pulled into another dangerous FBI manhunt by Jack Crawford. Despite the risk of losing his family, Graham agrees to help. Feeling desperate, Graham is forced to seek the assistance of Doctor Hannibal Lecter/Lecktor.

 In 1986, we were introduced to the characters of Will Graham, Hannibal Lector, and Francis Dollarhyde (the Red Dragon). This film (directed by Michael Mann) mainly follows Will Graham, the protagonist, through this manhunt mystery. However, unlike later films, this story doesn't offer much opportunity to properly know the infamous killers-Lecktor and Dollarhyde. There only role appears when it is convenient for the plot. Lecktor, in the short time that he shown on screen, is intellectually disturbing and cunning. However, he is not highly memorable on screen. Dollarhyde is presented as disturbingly insane. Which makes it curious as to how a woman could become attracted to him. The film hints at the horrors without fully revealing them. For instance, it isn't fully revealed that Lecktor is a cannibal. It also only hints at the crime done to the two families. There is some blood though. The story is designed to make the Graham into the ultimate good hero fighting against evil. The few special effects are very cheesy, and the cinematography is typical 1980's crime style. However, this film's use of crime scene analysis and the sensitive portrayal of an FBI investigator became an inspiration for several later investigative projects.

In 1991, we were reintroduced to Hannibal Lecter from Silence of the Lambs. We were also introduced to a new hero, Clarice Starling. In 2002, a remake (directed by Brett Ratner) of the 1986 Manhunt was created due to the huge popularity of the 1991 film. By this film, the public had been fully made aware of Lecter's crimes. This film starts by reminding us of his wicked ways. There is a lot more violence in this film, because it shows more of the villains. It makes Dollarhyde into a more sympathetic and unsettling villain. Lecter continues to enthrall and frighten a captive audience with his terrifying ability to manipulate people. This film was made to skillfully offer more of the favorite villain-Lecter. However, Graham takes on a slightly darker aspect while still remaining as the ultimate good. This film's cinematography is more typical of the 2000's horror style with much better special effects. Unfortunately, since this film was the second sequel to Silence of the Lambs, the film style became very formulaic and repetitive.

There are some small deviations between the two films; such as the prison cell appearance and the ending sequence. Apart from that both films tell the exact same story with a few alterations. Even some of the lines are repeated. These two films really do present the change in times. The hero becomes darker, and continues to do show in the television show Hannibal. The images become much more violent. The villain becomes the center of devote attention. Manhunter was a great basis, but Red Dragon was the full realization of the image.

William Peterson played the role of Will Graham. He was one of the most sincere actors I'd seen in a while on screen. Even if he did appear to have bleached hair and skin. Edward Norton reprised the role of Will Graham. He was sincere, but he managed to bring a slightly darker aspect to the surface. However he was less memorable. So, I would say that William Peterson was better in the role. Brian Cox played the role of Hannibal Lecktor. For the short time he was on screen, he was good. He had the intellectual creep vibe, but was easily forgetful. Anthony Hopkins reprised the role of Hannibal Lecter. As natural, he was amazing in this role. He got to spend more time on screen, but he was always memorable. I'd say Anthony Hopkins was much better in this role. Tom Noonan played the role of Francis Dollarhyde. He was great in creating a frightening killer. Ralph Fiennes reprised the role of Francis Dollarhyde. He created a frightening character that was highly sympathetic. It was much easier to understand the logic behind this killer. Ralph Fiennes was much better in this role.

I give Manhunter 3 out of 5 stars! It is a great introduction of this world and its characters.
I give Red Dragon 4 out of 5 stars! It was a great recreation, even if it felt too familiar.
I will say that Red Dragon was the final product that came out so much better than the original.

Answer to last blog: Ronald Dahl inspired director Wes Anderson, The Budapest Hotel, to re-create a film based on his work.

Question: Who directed Silence of the Lambs?

Jonathan Demme
Ridley Scott
Peter Webber
David Slade

The Grand Budapest Hotel

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This film is inspired from the writings of Stefan Zweig. In this story being told by an unknown author to a deceased one, an author discovers a strange man, Mr. Zero Moustafa, in a dying hotel, The Grand Budapest Hotel. This young writer speaks with Mr. Zero Moustafa about the hotel's first devoted concierge, Monsieur Gustave H., in Zubrowka.

This film was directed by Wes Anderson. This film continues the storytelling that director Anderson is famous for; such as Royal Tenenbaums and Fantastic Mr. Fox. Which means that this is told like a visually written novel, complete with chapters and a narrator. The beginning of the film is very much the introduction where you learn about the characters and their environment. After the very detailed introduction, comes the campy over the top and whimsical comedy. This film is mostly a whodunit mystery without the mystery. It also presents a lot of historical societal horrors in the form of comedic pros. There are a lot of deep emotional ideals that are hidden underneath its comedy (like greed and fascism). The script lines are written mainly in poetry, or as a repeated form to remind audiences of what is important. The film does have a unique cinematography that harkens to old school style of filmmaking. There is also a unique styling for the backdrop and character design. Ralph Fiennes played the role of Monsieur Gustave H. He was great with his comedic timing. Anything his character did was always directly on cue for comedic timing. Tony Revolori played the role of young Mr. Zero Moustafa. He was a great supporting actor for Fiennes. His almost silent agreeable character hide a lot of emotional backstory that was only ever hinted at. F. Murray Abraham played the role of Mr. Zero Moustafa. He was good as a narrator for the film.

I give this film 3 out of 5 stars! This is a unique style that some audiences will enjoy while others won't. 

Answer to last blog: The Alaskan State Troopers name, that captured Robert Hansen, was Glenn Flothe.

Que: What other author inspired director Wes Anderson to re-create a film inspired from a novel?

Lewis Carroll

Ronald Dahl

L. Frank Baum

C. S. Lewis

The Frozen Ground

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This film is based on the hunt for the 1980's serial killer Robert Hansen. Alaskan State Trooper Jack Halcombe is pulled into a strange murder case. The case unravels to reveal that a serial killer is hunting in Alaska. Halcombe seeks the assistance of a victim, Cindy Paulson, that escaped from the killer's clutches. 

This film was directed by Scott Walker. This film is done with respect to the unknown number of victims. The plot is very predictable, but it tries to remain true to actual events. So much of the film feels formulaic to this type of genre (true crime). However, the performances keep the film from falling flat. More could have been done to make the characters not only more relatable, but more impactful. There is enough shown to present the killer as dangerous and misunderstood. Interestingly, this film only hints at sexuality. There isn't a lot of gore, but some blood. Nicholas Cage played the role of Jack Halcombe. It is great seeing Cage returning to a film role. He was good in the role, but he didn't pull off the intense emotion that was needed for this character. John Cusack played the role of Robert Hansen. He was great as the creepy killer. It is unfortunate that he did not spend more time on screen. Vanessa Hudgens played the role of Cindy Paulson. She was great in her damaged role.

I give this film 3 out of 5 stars! It is a good true crime film. But, it could've done better with more intensity behind its story.

Answer to last blog: Director Lasse Hallstorm, The Hundred Foot Journey, did not direct the film The Sorcerer's Apprentice.

Que: What was the actual name of the Alaskan State Trooper that solved these murder cases?

Jack Halcombe

Allan Pinkerton

Glenn Flothe

Keith Dressel

The Hundred-Foot Journey and The Fluffy Movie

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This film is based off the novel, with the same name, written by Richard C. Morais. After the loss of his mother, Hassan Kadam and his family move around Europe trying to find the perfect location for a new restaurant. They finally settle in Saint-Anton-Noble-Val, France. There they open a restaurant across the street from Madame Mallory's Michelin star restaurant. Through food Hassan Kadam breaks cultural barriers and finds a new beginning for himself and his family. 

This film was directed by Lasse Hallstrom. The story of this film trends very familiar territory, and keeps itself highly predictable. What makes it different is that it shows the clash between different ethnic groups. It also shows how very different their food styles are, and how these foods can blend together to create something new. Everything in the film is done to exemplify the differences between to two cultures. There are several dark moments in the film that reveal the misunderstandings of life. In many ways this film feels like a cooking fairytale. Manish Dayal played the role of Hassan Kadam. His emotions drove the film's plot and gave the film its heartfelt presence. Helen Mirren played the role of Madame Mallory. As natural, she was a treat to watch on screen. She gave the film its bold and salty edge. Om Puri played the role of Papa. He was great in providing the film its mysticism.

I give this film 4 out of 5 stars! It is a great heartfelt dramedy that audiences can enjoy. It just feels too familiar.

Answer to last blog: Jon Favreau, Chef, directed the film Zathura: A Space Adventure.

Que: Which of these film did director Lasse Hallstrom not direct?

What's Eating Gilbert Grape

Hachi: A Dog's Tale

Chocolate

The Sorcerer's Apprentice 

Okay, I'm technically not supposed to review this type of film. This is a stand-up comedy film that was shown on the big screen. Much like the recent bash of concert films that have been created. Anyway, this film is full of Fluffy's great humor and is just as full of his stories. There are some moments that unexpectedly hit emotionally hard. All in all, this is a great film that I enjoyed. I give it 5 out of 5 stars!

Chef

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Carl Casper loses his job during a public dispute with a food critic. Carl, unable to find another cooking job, decides to open a food truck with the assistance of his ex-wife. Opening this food truck allows him to reunite with his family and rediscover his love of cooking.

This film was directed and written by Jon Favreau. This film was definitely made for food enthusiasts. The food featured in the film is just as important as the story itself. So, prepare to watch yummy food and get hungry. Fortunately most of the food and cooking shown is believable. The plot itself is predictable, but it is also very humorous and sincere. There is a lot of believability to the story even if it is slightly over the top. The film's plot starts very rich, but it slowly drifts away. It would have been great to see more of the father son bonding experience. There is a lot of adult language and some adult humor. So, even though this could be a family film it might not be suitable to all families. This film is unique in that it has a lot of big name actors in secondary character roles. These actors do get to make a presence on screen, but they do not fully outshine the leading character. Jon Favreau played the role of Carl Casper. He was great at doing everything for this film. He managed to create a serious chef with heart and humor. Emjay Anthony played the role of Percy. He was great supporting Favreau. Their on screen chemistry made the film worth the watch. John Leguizamo played the role of Martin. He gave the film its comedy in great ways.

I give this film 5 out of 5 stars! It is a great film for food lovers and families. 

Answer to last blog; Actresses Christina Ricci and Clea DuVall, Lizzie Borden Took An Axe, both stared in the film The Laramie Project.

Que: What other film has Jon Favreau directed?

The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy

Zathura: A Space Adventure

Jumanji

Notes From Underground