Premium Rush

The one and only reason I would ever consider watching a film about a "bike messenger in trouble" is JGL. I have a man crush on him and will watch him do absolutely anything. It has a lot to do with how he has crafted his career on his terms. Indie film star, writer, producer, and he chooses roles extremely wise. I don't know who gives him advice, if anyone, but he never misses. He will eventually, but for now, he is at the top of his game. On to the film. It is a VERY well directed film, and with me, that one aspect holds a lot of water. It really is reminiscent of Nick of Time with Johnny Depp. It starts in the middle, flashes back an hour, plays catch up, and then finishes strong. The title is a bit of a double entendre. The "Premium Rush" is the reason Wilee (JGL) is a NY City bike messenger, and it is also a delivery option a customer may choose from Wilee's company. When Wilee is given an envelope to deliver within 90 minutes he doesn't think twice.  He doesn't have to be told it's an important package, he treats every package the same. He is more prideful than stupid, and he is very stupid. He treats life like a ride, and if you slow down, you may as well die. Ironically, this is the situation he is unknowingly thrust into. He is given a package that comes with consequences. The film does a great job of keeping us guessing to the end game. What is the package, and why is it important? This does not concern Wilee....at first. He quickly realizes whatever it is could cost him his life. A fast paced action thriller that is extremely enjoyable, and Michael Shannon in the villain role was a perfect cast. This is the most I have enjoyed him ever, aside from Boardwalk Empire of course. Premium Rush never slows down, and the visuals, stunts, and foreshadowing by Wilee through the intersections are so much fun to watch. Especially when he gets hit by multiple cars and even a baby stroller in his visions. Please don't let my rating deter you from giving JGL a couple hours of your life. I don't want to undersell it, and I don't want my bias for JGL to give it unjust due. I know this film did really well on RT, however, I am not sure it is anything to write home about being the next BIG thing. Its biggest "It" factor is the direction, and that alone sets it well above mediocre. I am rating it on the High end of Awesome, and the Low end of Phenomenal, so...

NBM rates Premium Rush - Awesonomenal

Savages

A film that I was DYING to see, quickly turned into an "eh" moment, that then transformed into little desire. I should have gone with my first instinct. While not perfect by any means, it was FUN. A great development of character by a man I tend to hate. Oliver Stone has never made a great film. You start film dropping and I will argue to the death. I do not enjoy his work, and while this film had Stone nuances, it was actually great. To be honest, it is filled with great performances, but Aaron Johnson stole the show. He was even better than Taylor Kitsch, who I tend to like, even though 90% of his films have been considered flops. Savages follows 2 drug dealers on the top of their profession. They sell the best product, and they move tons of it. When they are "Offered" a deal to go into a distributorship partnership, it seems to good to be true. Hmmm, that usually means it is. When the dealing boys deny their Mexican buyers and "spit" on the them to boot. This gets very, very ugly for these guys. Then it gets worse. What is worse than the threat of death? Threatening to kill their girlfriend. That's right. Singular, as in they have the same Girlfriend? Exactly. O (Blake Lively) is their joint girlfriend. Weird, right? Either way, the dynamic delivered works really well. When threats come down, it is better to be on the same page with your cohorts than be divided. She is the catalyst that gives both these Men a no holds barred, balls to the wall, no care for themselves mentality. Now, I know why people hated it. All anyone has to do is read 5 reviews, and 4 of them will mention the ending. I get it, but the ending did not ruin anything for me. A movie that is truly enjoyable can't really be ruined by the ending. It may be tarnished, but not ruined. The entire film keeps us guessing and it is extremely interesting. I would have liked at least one more really good action scene, but there is very little wrong with this film from beginning to end. Don't let all of the wishy washy, mixed reviews deter you. If you wanna see, by all means, watch it. It is worth it.

NBM rates Savages - Awesome

Jack Reacher

Talk about a smack in the face. A good, adrenaline fueled kick to the proverbial nuts if you will. In today's day and age of CG action and green screen blasphemy, Tom Cruise gives us an extremely welcome Christmas gift with his new actioner, Jack Reacher. I never read the books, but I am well aware of the huffing going on about Cruise placing himself in the lead role. Sure Cruise is good and can be great, but the Reacher character is a 6 foot 5 inch, 250 pound behemoth of a man, who uses those particular physical traits to instill fear and intimidation into anyone who sees him. At 5'7", Cruise is hardly intimidating. However, after seeing how he acts in certain situations, I did become intimidated by him. Let me also say a little something about what I expected through trailers, and what was delivered. I expected a hard nosed action film about a vagabond who paved his own path and nothing more. I had no idea this film would lie smack dab in the heart of my favorite genre, Thriller. It is a great thriller. Instead of a whodunnit?, we get more of a Why do it? It kicks off pretty quickly and has you wanting more in a hurry. It had absolutely no CG, and one of the best car chase scenes in the last 10 years, and maybe a top 10 chase scene of all time in that Chevelle. It was a standard chase that was anything but ordinary according to how Hollywood usually does things these days. It all goes to the Director. The Direction of this scene was Masterful. The Direction of the entire film was insanely great, but this chase scene sets this film apart from other similar films. I didn't want it to end, and neither did my companions. Except for maybe Melissa F., who was more interested in digging into that cracky, crinkly plastic bag of Goobers (I think they were Goobers) than watching Jack destroy other men on screen in a very tactical way, I think they were as enthralled as I was. I also want to commend Tom Cruise on his impeccable timing and delivery of hilarious one liners that, for all intents and purposes, was able to eliminate any need for a crappy comic relief character. He did both jobs to perfection, and I already want to watch it again. The film was pretty flawless, and then who shows up? Robert Duvall. A man among men. Cole Trickle's crew chief of yesteryear. Those two have a chemistry unmatched by many, and though it was a bit role, maybe 20 minutes, it was very memorable, and really put the icing on the cake. I cannot wait for a sequel and I hope they go with my Brother's idea for a title. "Jack Reacher Round 2. Read it fast and out loud. You'll get it.

NBM rates Jack Reacher - Phenomenal

Red Dawn

Any time I hear of a movie getting the remake treatment, I get nervous. This was no different. Actually it was a little different, I was a little infuriated. You don't remake movies that were beyond great. You remake movies that had good ideas, but ended up being crappy. Red Dawn (1984) is one of the best movies of all time, and was not in need of a resurrection. I wrote this one off 3 seconds after reading about it, but then the trailer came out. I felt a little different. The longer and longer I had to wait, the more I wanted to see it. I was curious of how similar it would be to it's Father film, and to see what 30 years of technological advancements to do to the overall stature of the film. Today's technology allows us to see every aspect of every thing going on, so how could anyone invade us (The USA) without us knowing. Very intriguing. When North Korea invades Spokane, Washington it is beyond confusing for the citizens. The ones lucky enough to escape are just a few kids, and all the citizens are put into prisons of sorts. Some people are still allowed to move freely through town, always waiting at check points and being frisked by the intruders. The escapees are led by Jed (Thor). A marine home on holiday. He has the training and knowledge of war, but when he must lead a group of high school kids who know nothing of survival, it gets a bit tricky. There are several references or homages if you will to the original, but they also were able to create their own new story. At 97 minutes, I feel it was perfect. Quick and concise. Not convoluted at all. Within a half hour the Wolverines were giving the North Koreans constant Hell. The plans of attack were good, action was great, and Hemsworth delivered a great speech. The Wolverines were running low on steam when a couple of other Marines showed up, and were able to kickstart to freedom fight. The movie was solid from beginning to end, and those of you (Missy) may have changed at least one aspect of the film, I feel it was done exactly the way it had to be. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and so will you. It was no where near as great as the original, but nothing could be. It does however stand on its own as a good, fun,  action film.

NBM rates Red Dawn - Awesome

The Amazing Spider-Man

Never being a fan of the Sam Raimi trilogy, mainly because I couldn't buy Toby McGuire as Peter Parker, I was relieved that he was relieved of his duty. However, I found it hard to believe Marvel, with all its knowledge and infinite success over the last decade would decide to retire a Billion dollar franchise, only to reboot it with a new origin, new story, and new Spider-Man. That being said, Marc Webb's version is not only better than the previous 3 installments, but more enjoyable than several other superhero films that I also enjoy. The set up which takes around 45 minutes is perfect. So awesome to rewrite it the way they did. Not boring at all, and Andrew Garfield is the perfect Peter Parker. It develops with one story which is almost identical to the first Spider-Man, but to keep with the comics is kind of has to be that way. Uncle Ben has to do, which will give Peter his drive for revenge. I knew it had to go that way, but Martin Sheen was such a great Uncle Ben, I was hoping it could have played out differently. I understand why it could not, but this launched the early revenge driven Spidey to fighting crime. As we see Peter evolve and become about as mature as a 17 year old can be, it becomes very neat to watch him defend his city. The first trailer was a first person perspective of Spidey flying through the city, and as awesome as it was, I knew it could easily be overused and become stale. That did not happen and I was stoked to see it the first time, and a very short second time and end it with that. Marc Webb truly directed a perfect film. When a new threat hits New York, Parker already has the inside bead on it. He has a very string suspicion he knows the Giant Lizard is Doctor Curt Connors who he recently met. The destruction the Lizard does is awesome, and the end game of what he wants to accomplish really brings the story home. The CG team did some of the best work I've seen. Anytime CG is involved in fast motion, it tends to look fake. Not the case here. It seemed very flawless. The one thing that got me was seeing the Lizard speak. He never spoke in the trailers, so I just assumed he was completely different than his human counterpart. I really enjoyed that aspect of the film, along with Peter's sarcasm and campy jokes during fight scenes, this truly is well worth owning. I watched it twice in 2 days, and that is saying something. Very impressed, and can't wait for the sequel, also being directed by Webb. Also stay tuned through the credits. A mid credits scene shows may come in the next film, not to mention they are currently casting Mary Jane Watson and Harry Osborne.

NBM rates The Amazing Spider-Man - Phenomenal

Skyfall

I will begin by saying I am by no means a James Bond fanatic. I was introduced to him with the Pierce Brosnan era, which had one decent flick (Goldeneye), other than that, none of his had me running to the theater. Now, when Casino Royale reintroduced the MI6 spy back 6 years ago, I will enlivened with the whole gambit James Bond stood for. Then Quantum of Solace came out and upped the ante for me. I've been giddily anticipating what a third Craig led 007 would bring. Unfortunately the series went into a bit of a hiatus due to MGM's bankruptcy, the franchise property reverting back to it's original owners (the Broccoli family) and economical issues all around. The question of a James Bond film being able to recoup what ultimately would cost 200+ million to make was in the back of everyone's mind. 4 years between installments just made the heart grow fonder, and with an international gross over $500 million in less than 2 weeks, I don't think it will be an issue the have Craig's next 2 films known for the time as Bond 24 and Bond 25 be released no more than 2 years apart. Oh yes, Craig has resigned to make him the second longest Bond actor ever behind Connery himself. That makes me happy. Skyfall has the best opening scene and the best opening credits sequence I have ever seen in this franchise. We pick up with Bond doing what he does. Insane action at an extremely fast pace, but he hasn't lost a step...or has he. I've loved what this series has done with the character. They have made him tormented, dangerous, arrogant, and immature at times and that is awesome. That is human nature. I don't think I will spoil anything with a quick reference to plot...subplot rather. It is along the same lines as the 1996 film Mission Impossible. A knock list. A list that lists all agent's real identities and their current alias/status/mission/whereabouts. When this is stolen Bond must stop it, or there could be a genocide of MI6 agents round the World. The real plot is more about the question of Why and Who wants the list and What they will do with it. A great cast makes this film good, a great script makes it fantastic. Adding Ralph Fiennes and Javier Bardem can't hurt. I also loved the introduction of Naomie Harris who tends to be Bond's sidekick of sorts, and what they do with her character is nothing short of perfect. However, it is Judi Dench that ultimately steals the show. This is the first time I can remember M being such a center point of the film, and it works quite well. James must do what he always does and complete his mission. As much as Casino Royale was an origin story, Skyfall delves into Bond's past which was very interesting as well. Loads of people are saying this is the best Bond ever, and I will agree with that 100%. At 2 1/2 hours, it is not too long, and not too short....It's just perfect. As for Javier Bardem, he is the greatest on screen villain since Heath Ledger's Joker. That is a fact. I actually am considering watching it again. It is that good.

NBM rates Skyfall - A Cinematic Work of Art

The Muppets

I was never really a Muppet fan. I guess I was the wrong generation. Anyhow, I do appreciate Jason Segal and what he brings to Hollywood. Since he shared the writing credit with a deceased Jim Henson, I figured it was all him, and I could get behind that. I was still hesitant that I would be bored out of my mind, but the story was so good, and though I don't usually dig films laced with musical numbers, none of these songs disappointed. In fact, one song, gets stuck in my head on a weekly basis. Segal put together a great plot for The Muppets to return some 20+ years later, and it worked inner generationally. I have now watched it 4 times and it has those scenes I really look forward to. That makes any movie good. It follows Gary (Segal) and his brother, Walter (who is a Muppet) and there quest to find there place in this world. When the Muppets are about to lose the rights to their title and their studio to oil barren Tex Richman (Chris Cooper), Walter puts in place a plan to save the day. A Muppets TV telethon to raise the funds necessary. It is brilliant and hilarious. There is not much else to say about this except everyone should watch it. Adults and kids will enjoy it. Lastly, "If I am a Muppet, then I am a very manly Muppet, but if I am a Man, I am a Muppet of a Man." Maniacal Laugh!!!!

NBM rates The Muppets - Phenomenal

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (Alamo Drafthouse 70mm)

Who would fly 1600 miles round trip to watch a film that has been on home video since 1990? We would. A-Bomb and I went to watch The Last Crusade in glorious 70mm film. For those of you who don't know, standard film (before Digital became ubiquitous) is on 35mm. The width of the film is what gives the picture its size on the screen. Now double that, format it properly, and what you get is a grand scale movie you can only dream of if you don't see it for yourself. When the legendary Alamo Drafthouse Ritz in Austin, TX brought out their 70mm series I was intrigued. They were going to show films in the magnificent format for a 1 week run only per title. The Last Crusade was week 2 in the series, and I read about this 3 weeks before it was to happen. I was giddy that an opportunity to watch a film in the greatest series ever was going to be available on the big screen. Other than the 4th installment, I had not seen any of the first three in a theatre setting. One text message later this far flung dream was closer to reality than I could have expected. I mean, in reality, who would spend in excess of $500 to go see a movie? A movie I have owned since the day it hit DVD. A movie I also owned in the VHS format. A movie I have seen 30+ times. Me. I would, but to go alone would be foolish. The dumb part is, who would share such a strange adventure with me. Only one person I could think of. And sure enough, without hesitation, A-Bomb immediately replies with, "Let's do it" or something to that nature. I had not expected that response to what I assumed was a joke question on my part. Now it is somewhat real. The next day we had flight tickets before we even had seats to the show. Awesome, right? I will say this, when people find out you are flying somewhere to watch a film, you get 2 initial responses. The first is an assumption that I/we somehow had something to do with the making of the film. That we are film makers/producers. Those are from the people that think like me. The other half immediately question, What movie? Anxiously waiting on our answer, desperately hoping they are meeting someone important, we respond with Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade, to which we are met with one of two replies. "That is AWESOME!!!", or "Okay?" which is paired with an expression that really lets us know what they are thinking. These guys are morons. In fact, we are geniuses. We know what makes us happy, and we will have no regrets later that we didn't do something because it may be considered ludicrous by normal standards. It was an adventure that gave us several stories we will be able to pass down. A fun filled 3 days that I will forever embrace as one of the best times of my life, oh ya, and the movie was pretty good as well. Now on to the theatre itself. The Alamo Drafthouse Ritz is in downtown Austin. It is a twin theatre with one huge house that is equipped with the 70mm projector and a smaller house that shows first run films in standard format. It was very cool that we were able to reserve specific seats, so we didn't have to stress about getting there early to snatch up prime viewing real estate. The absolute coolest aspect of it though was what seats we actually reserved. Semi private balcony. Two balconies bookended the auditorium. With a balcony reservation came several perks that made the $20 add on well worth it. Each balcony only had seating for 4. The seating was broken up into 2's, where we were set up in leather, reclining, over sized loveseat that was so cush, it felt like we were at home if our home was equipped with awesome loveseats. If the seating comfort wasn't enough, we were escorted by our personal waiter up a private elevator which led to the projector booth. We walked through the "room where the magic happens" to get to our seats where our waiter asked us what we would like to order. Cool, huh? It gets better. Not only were we able to get a top notch pizza with so many pork bi-products on it, it was called "Porky's Revenge", but it was brought to us mid feature and set on our personal tables so we didn't miss even a single over sized frame of the film. Now, what kind of tasty beverage would we want to wash down this delicious pie? Coke? Water? Naw, how bout a Vodka Tonic. Ya, I'll have that, and when I'm done with it, go ahead and bring me another. Without ever leaving our seats, we were fed and liquored up to perfection while watching Indy ask the castle if they have tapestries. It could not have been a better experience, and yes, I would do it all over again. This story is dedicated to my friend Aaron. With you, apparently even stupid, off the wall notions are possible. Thank You.

NBM rates Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade - A Work of Art

NBM rates The Alamo Drafthouse Ritz - A Work of Art

Jester rates the overall trip - A Work of Art

Argo

 

You all know I am a Ben Affleck fan, but only since he took a director's position and proved he knows what he is doing. He is currently my favorite director. With 3 films now under that belt, all of them could have been Oscar contenders, but without fail, he has not made that cut just yet. I do feel he was snubbed with his last offering The Town, and while I feel Argo is a shoe in to crack the top 10 noms for Best Picture, I'd more like to see Ben in that illustrious top 5 Directors of the year category. Will he win? I don't know. I don't really care. I just feel he should be recognized for his efforts. I kind of hope he doesn't win. Why? I worry if he wins that prestigious career making award, he may become complacent and not give as much effort as he has. Each of his 3 features show signs of improvement and his "cinematic eye" is growing stronger. As perfect as The Town was, Argo is damn near flawless. Not only is it a true story, but to lay down this ridiculous story into 2 hours and have it be perfect is a feat in and of itself. Argo is the true story about the 1979 Iranian hostage situation that was declassified in 1996. I don't know much about this history because I was not alive in 1979. With that said, you will be given all you need to know to give you a coherent film. There is no info you should know beforehand to enjoy this film. Like I said, Perfect. The Argo mission had nothing to do with the actual hostages, but focused on retrieving 6 Americans who escaped capture and holed up in the Canadian ambassador's mansion in Iran. Tony Mendez (Affleck) is brought in to help. He is the CIA's top ex-fil guy (short for Exfiltration), and he is there to comprise a plan of attack. The ideas that the CIA are coming up with are asinine, and Tony's is not much better. Fortunately for him it is the best bad idea they have. Make a fake movie. The homework aspect of it where Tony goes to Hollywood to get his fake movie made is absolutely hilarious. Sharing screen time equally through this portion of the film is John Goodman playing legendary make up artist John Chambers, and old school movie producer Lester Siegel played by Alan Arkin. This is the comedic portion of the film, and this stupid plan must be 100% perfect, and they only have a few weeks to make it so. With that said,  this movie is a thriller in every sense of the definition. The last half of the movie I sweated out my shirt, my wife picked her cuticles, and I had knots in my stomach. Wanna know what makes a good movie great? Knowing how it will end (Ya know, because it happened 33 years ago) and still being that knotted up. Quality film making Mr. Affleck. If the trailers look at all interesting to you, go watch it. No one should be disappointed in this film, and if you are, well then I will just say one thing, ARGO #U@& YOURSELF.

NBM rates Argo - Phenomenal

Looper

So, is it possible to have an original idea these days? Yes. Case in point: Looper. I was more than expecting to love this movie. In fact, it would have taken a complete meltdown of story, acting, and effects for me to not have enjoyed it. Exactly the opposite happened. It is coherent story telling at its finest. There are tons of ins and outs, and what have yous, and I cannot believe how perfect it was. Anyone who owns a TV should know the premise of this film. Loopers are assassins in the year 2044. "Marks" are sent from 30 years in the future to be wiped out by the looper. Loopers are paid well in a mostly poor economy. They live well, they love their drugs and women, and as long as their record remains at 100%, life will remain good. That is what the trailers have fed us. We also know that one day, Old Joe (Willis) appears in front of 2044 Looper Joe (JGL), and JGL fails to do his job. This is only the tip of the iceberg of all the different aspects of this film. It goes in so many directions, yet is so engaging, it is almost impossible to not follow along. There was one point when I thought to myself, what the Hell is happening, then it plays out very well. There is also one aspect before the Joe/Joe situation happens that shows where this can go when failure occurs. I won't ruin it, but it was hard to watch, yet so over the top brilliant in its delivery. Where the story goes after Joe lets Joe get away is absolutely mind boggling. It goes forward and back. It is constantly edge of your seat good, and what is introduced, which becomes the main plot point really, caught me off guard. It was a twist of sorts. I was under the impression it would be about a battle against one's own self, but what it evolved in to is way better. It is deeper, and at times, hard to watch due to subject matter. Old Joe has his own agenda, while Looper Joe is trying to figure out what he needs to do. The writing of this in depth story very well could have derailed and become crap in a can. Instead it ultimately becomes the most original, most enjoyable film since Inception. The always gorgeous Emily Blunt plays a very good character, and Piper Perabo (Remember her? Coyote Ugly) seems to have a small part that turns out not to be that small. I cannot get the film out of my head, which proves how imprinting it is. Films that do that become legends and eventually get remade due to the lack of originality in Hollyweird. Rian Johnson who wrote and directed Looper was born by indie film cred. Looper is no different for him. The only difference is he got a bigger budget to make this film. The film, at times, looks as indie as they come. No soundtrack, no background music, no frills. I was a little concerned, as a lot of folks were, about JGL's prosthetics. I will say, it actually played well. It was not distracting and I appreciated the dedication to make this more real. I did find it hard to believe people in 2044 are still driving 2011 Smart Cars (33 years old), 1998 F 150's (46 years old), and late 2000 model Chevy Silverados (mid 30 years old), but at the same time, I appreciate budget money not being spent to make futuristic props that would have no bearing on the story itself.  That was the only thing I questioned in this futuristic, Sci-Fi Thriller. Everything else was fantastic, and I know why I LOVED it, but I am curious to see how other audience members feel. I did hear some grumbles when the credits rolled, yet I laughed it off and grinned ear to ear at what I had just seen. I already want to watch it again. That is saying something with the ridiculous ticket prices these days.

NBM rates Looper - A Work of Cinematic Art

Lawless

I was really anticipating this film, and probably not for the reasons you may think. My #2 reason was content. I love watching stories from this era and the fact it is based on true events doesn't hurt either plus it had that gangster quality about it, but the #1 reason is Tom Hardy. I'm not sure anyone in Hollywood commands the screen as he does right now. He plays Forrest Bondurant. A bootlegger in Franklin Virginia during prohibition. Luckily for him and his outfit, he lives in a small town and local authorities pay him no mind. Probably because they appreciate the shine he produces as much as the next person. Forrest is a no frills guy. He lives quiet as long as he is not pushed. His crew consists of his two brothers, Howard and Jack(LaBeouf). Jack has bigger dreams than what Forrest is allowing, but Jack must choose his own path. Forrest tries to keep a level head about Jack, but knows jack may have to learn the hard way. Things are fine till Forrest declines to give new officials a kick back on profits he earned, so he finds ways to run around them. When Special Inspector Rakes (Guy Pearce) shows up to crack skulls things begin to change. He is as ruthless as he is ugly. The slicked back hair with a strange middle part that spreads a good 3/4 of an inch apart to his sadistic sociopath attitude, and I think what made him look more scary are the lack of eyebrows. He feels he is above the law in enforcing the law, and he frightens people, but not Forrest. This is a great story of family ties, illegal business, and the lengths some will go to protect what they hold dear. Beautifully filmed and violently gruesome. It reminded me of gangster films of yesteryear, and I LOVED it!!! It was better than I expected it could be and for fans (Male) of Jessica Chastain, you are in for a treat. She is glowingly elegant. Beautiful as can be and she delivers a little treat that I didn't see coming. As much as Tom Hardy takes over, even at second billed behind LaBeouf, it is actually Pearce who steals the show. Totally demented and brilliant. Could get him Oscar Gold. And for those of you excited to see another brilliant performance from Gary Oldman, you will not be disappointed. With that said, I expected more from him than 3 small scenes that really had very little bearing on the bigger picture of things. All around fun film that I recommend.

NBM rates Lawless - Phenomenal 

2016 : Obama's America

This is not a film that is going to draw a wide audience. When it comes to politics you have Right and Left, but rarely Center. I consider myself and my views Right. Not because of my politics, but my general being. I am a quite accurate person. Anytime I speak it tends to correct. In that sense, I am right. As for Politics, no one is ever right - correct. Politicians always have their own agenda and the person who gets elected is the one that makes the most believable promises. Delivering on those promises is more rare these days than finding a pack of unicorns. What I wanted to know about this film is how little I actually knew of the man who is our 44th President. I knew almost nothing about him and that is scary. It is a fact based documentary. Not much speculation or theories, but it all seems black and white. I also was interested by the fact that this is based on the book written by Dinesh D'Souza. He is an immigrant himself who has seen the best and worst of The U.S., and I was interested on his perspective. I really enjoyed the architecture of his documentary. At 90 minutes long, it breaks down like this - Opening 20 minutes are about Dinesh himself. His beginnings, how he came to the U.S., and his career during and after his college years at Dartmouth. The next 40 minutes focus on Barack Obama. From birth till now, almost nothing is left out. This is important, because he is an unknown person who lives in the White House and runs the country. We are given information not released in the media, and this interested me. It chronicles his relationship or lack thereof with his Father, follows him to Indonesia where he lived as a teen for a few years, and it closely dissects his relationships with several radicals in the world that have very different views about life and liberty as we have come to know here in the U.S. Finally the last half hour is where it does get very Real and very Scary. It poses the question of what state our country will be in by 2016 if he gets re-elected. In my opinion, all Americans, Left Right and Center should watch this portion. The history of Barry is important because we see his allegiances and how he views "What America should be", but if everyone watched the last half hour with a completely blank and open mind, and forgot about Political Parties and all that,  the 2012 election would turn out very differently. I think Dinesh put together a great documentary without slamming Obama, accusing him of not being born here, and not downright attacking him. We get facts, some opinions, and we should do with it what we will.

NBM rates 2016 - A Must See before November 6, 2012

God Bless America

This is a brilliant premise that not only delivers visually, but audibly, and cerebrally as well. It shows what is wrong with our society in a smash nose fashion, that I would wager the majority of people who watch this film are actually smart enough to recognize a good movie when they see, and therefore are smart enough to realize how bad our society has actually become. Bobcat Goldthwait wrote this unseen gem, and just like his other film, World's Greatest Dad, he delivers what humans have stopped thinking about. Very common societal issues that have somehow become "normal". The way he puts it all down is genius, and though the content is very adult, mass murder and whatnot,  it is very poetic. The opening monologue in itself is one of the best I've heard, and the hero/anti-hero depending on your views of the story, has several really good speeches throughout. When Frank gets the news of a terminal, inoperable brain tumor, he decides enough is enough and his first target is awesome. a "Sweet sixteen" spoiled beyond belief, reality queen who is "mean". This is when he instantly feels better about his soon to end crappy existence, but until one of the now deceased girls classmates stalks him as kind of an innocent "you're my hero", things get awesome. She wants to kill everyone, whereas he just wants to kill people who deserve it. People who are mean. Sure, it is a Dramedy about two mass murderers who, in a strange way, had me rooting for them to wipe out the scum of the Earth and get away with it. It would be a hard film to watch if you have a weak stomach, or hate senseless killing. I really know the reason we are on Frank's side is because of how and why he loses his job. There is no respect, no chivalry, no decency, and no common sense in our world anymore and Frank decides to amend that, and I respect him for it. Balls to the wall, all out, downright delightful extermination of the vermin that occupy our society with no remorse at all. Funny thing is today, one day after watching this film, I realized I would be spared by Frank. I am polite and respectful. So, here is to "the meek shall inherit the Earth" and all that.

NBM rates God Bless America - Phenomenal

The Raid : Redemption

You can read and assess all you want about any given film, but there is no certainty it will deliver what you may have expected. When I heard "Indonesian task force (Cops) raid a building for 90 minutes trying to take down bad guy" I was skeptical. I was not skeptical after watching the trailer if the film was to be less than 30 minutes long. However, at 90 minutes I wondered how they could spend that much time in one building? I am going to throw out a comparison, and I doubt you will agree with me right out of the gate. Scott Pilgrim vs The World. Films that rely solely on choreography had better be PERFECT, and entertaining without becoming stagnate in the delivery. This subtitled film was easy to follow along. The plot is not that in depth. Director Gareth Evans set out to make a modern martial arts film for pure entertainment purposes and he succeeded. It reminded me of Scott Pilgrim because he did things in his film I had never seen before, much like Edgar Wright did in SP. New and inventive ways to kill people, non stop fighting involving at least 2 people and up to 30 at a time. Guns, machetes, hammers, chairs, axes, fridges, and fists are all used as weapons. It really is non stop action with a body count around 100 I'd say. It is one of the bloodiest, most brutal films I have ever seen, but very beautifully done. The direction is flawless, but like I said, the choreography is second to none. Immensely entertaining. Makes me wish Indonesia had more movies come to the states. Of course that could more harm than good. This is probably one of those diamond in the rough, 1000:1 odd type of deals, and as far as I'm concerned, lightning doesn't strike twice when dealing with third world countries making great cinema.

NBM rates The Raid: Redemption - Phenomenal

The Expendables 2

The first Expendables was everything men who were children in the eighties and nineties could have dreamed of, and The Expendables 2 is so much better in every aspect it should be illegal. Featuring a cast with a combined age of around 980 years, these guys have been around the block. However, they have never traveled together. Stallone may be my favorite person right now for having an idea and making it happen. He got some of the biggest egos in Hollywood to all play equal on screen portions to help create what is turning into the best action franchise of all time. The first one was surreal when Willis, Arnie, and Sly all shared the screen for that one short scene. Now to see them fighting side by side is the reality I am glad to be a part of. Willis and Arnie are by no means main characters, but they are very prominent in the second half of the film. This film has a better plot which is based on revenge. Revenge flicks are always fun, because we know everyone will die. When an "Expendable" is terminated, this is all Barney (Sly) needs to amp up his team, call in some big dogs, and destroy everything. Willis returns as "Church". The CIA liaison who is shouting orders at Barney and his team, while Arnie is still an independent contractor in the same game. Some Barney gets some help from them as well as The Lone Wolf (Norris) to help him find and hopefully destroy Vilain (JCVD). The fact that the Villain is named Vilain should tell you the caliber of film we are dealing with here. The revenge plot is a way better angle than the previous offering involving a tyranny on an island no one goes to. This is personal and well played out. The two things that make this film more enjoyable than it should be are - A: The Jokes; and B: the body count. Lets start with the jokes. Every pun you can think of made it into this film. Between Sly, Willis, and Arnie, dozens of references to each others films were thrown out like they had a Gatling gun full of jokes. Then Norris comes in and delivers some gems of his own. I will be anxious for DVD release to really try and catch all of them. I'd say it was in the 30 range. The only thing A-Bomb and I feel they missed out on was a Planet Hollywood reference, and the film had a scene where it would have been perfect, but no complaints from us. Now the body count. Tomorrow you can read about the film The Raid which had quite a death toll. Take that number and multiply it by 300 and you may get close to Ex2. I am only guessing, but 3000 would probably close to accurate. The bodies just kept piling up and we kept laughing at the total disregard for the current cost of ammunition. As you can tell, I love this film and I actually want to see it again...sooon. Also with Nic Cage already signed on for Ex3, and reading that Sly wants Eastwood, Snipes, Ford, and Seagal, the next two years are going to drag along waiting for the next installment of what I can only hope doesn't conclude with a trilogy but continues pace for at least 7 total films.

NBM rates The Expendables 2 - Phenomenal

The Campaign

It's simple. If you like the formula Will Ferrell throws out in his comedies, you'll like The Campaign. If you don't, you won't. The Campaign has nothing miraculously special about it. It is just solid ad libbed, stupid, ridiculous comedy. It is asinine, and preposterous, but funny throughout, and tear inducing hilarious at times. Cam Brady (Ferrell) is a soon to be 4 term congressman who runs unopposed on the Democratic ticket in North Carolina every election, until Martin Huggins throws his hat in the ring on the GOP ticket. This is when is goes from good to Fantastic. It boasts some of the best comedic visuals I have ever witnessed on the screen. This is another film to stash in Will Ferrell's very specific occupational related films, and though Ferrell is top billed, Galafianakis steals the show. Marty is a very effeminate man who doesn't like the politics game. He is only there to get his Father's (Brian Cox in a great role of disappointed Father) approval. The two surprises to me were the roles of the power players who aren't politicians but businessmen who "get people elected who can help them get richer". Dan Aykroyd and John Lithgow. Didn't see that one coming, did you? They are very reminiscent of the douche bag billionaire brothers who actually screw Dan Aykroyd in Trading Places and that's the main appeal to me about these two. They are Team Huggins and the hire the big gun campaign manager played by Dylan McDermott to ensure victory. This also interested me. How did McDermott get involved in this? He is the only true actor amongst the main players which are all comedians. I will say that he nails it. He does his job perfectly, and one of the best jokes in the film are involving his character's aliases which are read halfway through the credits. BTW: stay for the credits. The trailer tells the tale, but we show up for what the trailer can't show and it is worth every second. It is solid throughout, and I am already quoting it with any like minded souls who have seen it (Dean-O).... and the baby punching scene is one of the funniest things I have ever seen in my life. 

NBM rates The Campaign - Awesonomenal

Rabbit Hole

This is the single most depressing film I have ever seen. Sure, with the cast you know it has to be good, which from that aspect it was. The content, however, is hard to bare if you have kid(s), want kids, or have a soul and or a pulse for that matter. I can think of only one reason to watch this film. If you feel like crying. That's it. 
     I wrote the first paragraph only after watching half of the film, but like a train wreck, I could not look away. I had to finish it. I had to see if Becca (Kidman) would be alright. I had to see how long Howie (Eckhart) could deal with being alone emotionally and physically. These two people both experienced the same loss but coping mechanisms are different with all people. And lastly I had to know why she was stalking the boy pictured above. Did he remind her of her son? Did she feel a strange connection with this young man? I had to know, and the information I am not going to tell you, would break your heart. The scene pictured is one of the most gripping scenes I can remember in recent history. The pain these two have seems almost insurmountable. I also want to point out that my rating system does not apply to this film. I cannot, in good conscience, rate this film AWESOME, or PHENOMENAL. it just needs an overall rating with no catchy words attached. The content is just too heavy for any of my adjectives.

NBM rates Rabbit Hole - 4 out of 5 stars

NBM rates Rabbit Hole

Total Recall

Every once in a while their is justifiable reasons to remake a film. Even if the original was great. This is one of those films that people want to hate because it may be under the file "sacrilege", but I am open to new interpretation and this is DEFINITELY  worth everyone's time if you enjoyed the first one. Another reason this one was ready for another film is that technology has finally caught up with the world that Philip K Dick created. The world Len Wiseman built is so astoundingly perfect. It was impossible back in 1990 to do it justice. The effects and CG and overall imagination of the Art Directors is so much fun to sit back and enjoy. All that said, THIS IS NOT A REMAKE!! It uses the same title, character names and general principal, but this film actually mirrors the novel very closely, as for the Arnie version, where screen writers took tons of liberties to change a lot of the scenery, ie Mars and whatnot. Colin Farrell chose to do what many would not. Take a role that Mr. Universe made famous. He did it justice, but this version was knocked out of the park through Wiseman's storytelling. The poster's tagline is "What is real? What is Rekall" and I caught myself wondering several times if it was all a dream. Up until the end I was wondering. That is a brilliant film. Staring at Jessica Biel and Kate Beckinsale beat the crap out of each one minute and look beautiful all the other minutes was just superb casting as well. I don't feel I have to get into plot points because I'm sure you all have seen the previous version. I do feel the hatred being thrown at this film is simply out of spite that someone would remake an already brilliant film. I'm glad they did. It entertained me immensely. I want to see it again, if for nothing else, to see three boobs on a single lady.  I also liked seeing what Quaid was reading while in transit. A book by Ian Fleming. A spy novel perhaps. I'm not sure what Fleming is famous for, but I think it was spy novels. This is not a spoiler as it has nothing to do with the plot and was not even mentioned or focused in on. I simply noticed it off center of the main focal point. Blew away my expectations, and if you can take it as a totally different film, and not linger being a sad sack over "what have they done" syndrome, then you too will enjoy it. It is a grade A sci-fi thriller to the MAX. The only regret I have about my experience is the fact that I paid $5.15 for a bottle of Water. Ya, I could get it out of a garden hose...for free...that's $5? And Hollywood wonders why no one is going to the movies.

NBM rates Total Recall - Phenomenal

Brave

This is one of my favorite Pixar offerings that is not a sequel in some time. I like it better than Up, Wall-E, Cars, Ratatouille just to begin with. Then I would have to really think about the films I like the most and make an in depth voting system to help me accurately determine where Brave would stand overall. Initially I am thinking 4th behind the Toy Story franchise (Lumped together), Monster's INC, and Finding Nemo. I liked it that much. I liked that I didn't know what the sub plot was going to be. All we know from the marketing campaign is that the heroin wants to change her fate. What is her fate? Well, she is a King's daughter and she is now old enough to be betrothed to someone she has never met. This is where the old adage "Be careful what you wish for" is instituted to the fullest. I thought it was going to be similar to "It's a Wonderful Life", but it couldn't be further from that. I am not going to get into what actually changes in her life, but it turns into a tale of fixing what you have already done, and not taking for granted the people most special in your life. Brave is the most vibrant film since Nemo in my opinion. The ocean has so much to offer as far as color and scenery, and Brave used beautiful landscaped from Scotland along with using very understandable accents and set in the 10th century make this comedy so much fun to enjoy visually alone. The story is fantastic as well, and lots of people were telling me it was dark and my 3 year olds may be frightened. I think I disagree with this. It has one or two scary moments involving a big snarling bear, but when I heard it was dark, I immediately thought of black magic and faces melting ala Raiders of the Lost Ark. That was not the case and my kids were not frightened. I loved it and cannot wait till I can buy it on DVD and wear the disc out from overuse. To me, it was a refreshing rebirth of what Pixar is capable of.


NBM rates Brave - Phenomenal

Safe House

Denzel is definitely at the height of his powers as a Hollywood leading man. He produces nearly everything he stars in, which shows he picks what he wants to do, and he rarely chooses poorly. Though not all his reach critical acclaim, each and every one of them (even when they involve a runaway train) are very good films that seem to be made for everyone. They never seem to go toward one specific group or another. They seem to appeal to everyone. Safe House is no different. I'm sure he had some say in the casting of Ryan Reynolds to play opposite him in this international conspiracy thriller, and he knew what he wanted and Ryan delivered. At what point I was surprised that the kids who started out on the TV show "Two guys, a girl, and a pizza place" could go toe to toe with Denzel, but at times he stole the scene. He is a CIA rookie who never sees any action, or any one for that matter. He babysits an always empty structure used as a Safe House/ Interrogation quarters when such a place is needed. Then the one day he gets a prisoner it happens to be Tobin Frost (Denzel). He is the baddest of the bad. He defected from the CIA some 10 years earlier and is wanted for the highest form of treason possible. He sells secrets about his government and operatives to the highest bidder which is why the government wants him back so badly. The way he is caught raises some suspicion, but the real problem are the people who want him dead more than the US government. Lots of bad people come a callin', and it turns into Reynolds job to keep him alive. This task turns out to be near impossible, but the longer they find themselves with each other, the more tidbits Reynolds collects as to why Frost disappeared to begin with. Great action, a smart plot, and fantastic acting make Safe House a must see for anyone who wants a bang bang shoot em up with heart.


NBM rates Safe House - Phenomenal

The Adjustment Bureau

This is one of the best films I have seen in recent years. Maybe it was the subject matter. Maybe it was that I had it pegged all wrong, and it was unlike anything I could have expected. I don't know, but I now LOVE this film. I thought it was going to be a political thriller much like The Ides of March. Not even close. Politics play a role in the plot, but by no means is this film political. This film answers to a higher power than any government could ever possess. It's mainly about life choices and where they will lead your future, but it is also about intervention when necessary to give one a bit of a nudge in the direction you are "suppose" to go. David (Damon) is about to embark on two moments that will define him as a man. He is about to lose an election for a Senate seat, and he is about to meet Elise (Blunt), aka, The woman of his dreams. It is love at first sight, but it is not meant to be. That doesn't stop him from looking for her, but it will be 3 very long years before he runs into again and this is where we get an inside look into what "The Adjustment Bureau" is. Without giving away to much, they are a group of men who feel they know what is best for every human on Earth, and they are also the ones who give those little nudges I spoke of earlier. The thing about this Bureau is no human knows of their existence. Not suppose to. They merely observe, until observing isn't enough. I immediately related them to the observers from Fringe, but in fact this is based on a book that precedes that show some 30 years, so JJ Abrams is actually the plagiarizer here. Shame Shame JJ. So what we here is actually a really great thriller that will keep you enthralled with the end game, and it may make you think of some of the choices you have made in life that you either regretted or didn't understand why you do such a thing. Is there an Adjustment Bureau, or is all just Free Will? Fantastic film with wonderful performance all around. Buy it, rent it, watch it, pass it along to anyone who hasn't seen it. 

NBM rates The Adjustment Bureau - Phenomenal

This Means War

Exactly what I expected? Sure, but with an added bonus. Great chemistry between the two leading men. They are close as brothers in the film and that could be hard to play, since they probably first met on the set. They successfully made me believe they have known each other for 20 years. This is a sign of great actors. I am a Tom Hardy fan, and this is a bit of a different role for him. Of the two men, He is the more sweet, understanding guy and Chris Pine is the playboy, arrogant stud. It was good to see Hardy tone down his brutish glares and intimidating stares. This is the story of two men who fall for the same woman played by Reese Witherspoon. The catch is, she dates both of them. She is unaware they know each other, and they are unaware they are also dating the same woman. They make a pact that the best man wins. Whoever she chooses will win, and the loser will walk away like a real man. It's all so simple. Ya right. Oh ya, and these guys are highly trained, very lethal CIA spies who have unlimited resources to military grade toys. This little nugget allows them to, well, spy. Not only on her, but on each other. It's funny because that is the gist of the rom-com aspect of This Means War, but the film opens with a plot about international terrorism that ends up being a pretty solid sub plot throughout. Reese is always lovely, but the men steal the show. We just wait to see how they will sabotage each other's next date and it goes from very light to pretty extreme. I never had a dull moment watching this film full of cliches. It also boasted one of the funniest scenes ever when Hardy's character is accused of being "too nice". This leads to an all blitz on a paintball game that will leave you laughing. I was more than pleased with this run of the mill comedy, that had great action, cool gadgets, and a superb way to make the love interest make her choice between the two men. Very enjoyable, definitely worth 90 minutes of anyone's day.


NBM rates This Means War - Awesome

Chronicle

This is another one of those "real" films that is actually fiction. It is all filmed by one guy with his camcorder, and it's an "unedited" look at the adventure these 3 young men embark on after spelunking into a mystery hole they found in a field. What they do know, is they have been blessed with special abilities that over time with patience, and practice, they will be able to harness it becoming the most powerful individuals on the planet. It starts out small. Levitating small objects, but then with time it grows. As they say, it's like a muscle. Build it up and the possibilities are endless. These 3 individuals seem to be level headed about it, but one kid, with a horrible home life and no friends, finds it as an escape from his hell on Earth reality. He begins to scare the others. He can't control his emotion, and people start getting hurt. The other two quickly realize they may have unlocked Pandora's box and they feel they need to intervene. Easier said than done. This is one those rare films that uses a method of film making that can leave you feeling ripped off or left in awe. Chronicle left me in awe. The film itself is full of great dialog, but is also full of great effects. Then the human side of it turns terribly dark and hard to swallow. It is one of the most fun movies I've seen in a long time. So very different from everything else being offered these days and there is not a slow moment throughout. It is definitely worth at least one viewing per person, and I realize some will hate it for reasons I don't care to go into, but if you can get past the "indie" aspect of it with the shaky camera and weird angles you will enjoy what you are witnessing. A very original film with no star power that delivers an extremely powerful film.

NBM rates Chronicle - A Cinematic Work of Art

Sherlock Holmes : A Game of Shadows

I missed the first one in the theater, and loved it on DVD. I tried to get to this one in theater after seeing how good it looked as well, but failed again. In my opinion, the first one is more enjoyable. Game of Shadows is good, don't get me wrong, but it's the same movie with new characters. Not necessarily the same plot, but Guy Richie (Who I love) used the exact same blue print for this one that he did for number 1. I was hoping for something new. He was so visionary with the first one, and I expected some new tricks, techniques, and slight of hand from this one, but it was played out exactly the same. The only difference was it was released in 3D, so there were scenes to prostitute that technology. The scenes would have stood alone without that aspect, but other than that, it's a bunch of foreshadowing by Holmes to know what his moves will be against assailants, friends....everything really. The villain this time around is Moriarty played superbly by the "Great at be creepy, Evil, Odd" Jared Harris. He is Holmes arch Nemesis, and this story delivers a rather unusual form of trickery on Moriarty's part. That aspect I really liked. Basically it's another one of those, "figure out how to stop the bad guy from total world annihilation and not die" film. It's definitely a popcorn movie. It also did what the first film did with explanations. At the end the whole thing is recapped by Holmes in a narrative/speech about how he figured it all out. I know it is supposed to throw us, but to explain everything we just watched seems silly. Like I said Good not fantastic like it's predecessor, but worth a look.


NBM rates Sherlock Holmes : A Game of a Shadows - Awesome

The Grey

I knew this would be worth a look because of Liam Neeson. He is more bankable  right now than he has ever been, and I'm not sure when that happened. Batman Begins helped, but I think it was Taken that did it full on. This very much has the feeling of the movie Alive at the beginning. A plane full of people crashes in unfriendly circumstances. Not only is it freezing, but in The Grey, the survivors have to also fend off a blood thirsty pack of wolves. It's one of those films that doesn't have "a lot". Not a lot of effects. Not a lot of story. Not a lot of character back stories. It's a bare bones script about 7 Men fighting to survive in the wilderness they were thrust into against their will. Luckily for the other 6, they have Ottway (Neeson). A survivalist who actually made a living keeping wolves at bay so the men could work unhindered on the Alaskan rig. He knows the breed and he hunted them down, but more than that, he respected them. An unrecognizable Dermot Mulroney is one of the 7, which surprised us. I thought he would have got a little recognition among this cast of no ones. The adventure that takes place isn't a long one in terms of run time. The Men face obstacles and terrain, but they know it will be the wolves that get them, if they are destined to be got, if you will. An intense film to say the least. Very well done, and Neeson delivers as he always does. If you wanted to see it, but haven't, I'd say the trailers delivered pretty accurately as to what is in store for the viewer.


NBM rates The Grey - Awesome

The Dark Knight Rises

I've been saying it for months that this would be the movie to see this Summer and I was right. There is absolutely nothing not to like with Christopher Nolan's third and final Batman film. It could not have been better in my opinion and that all goes back to story. Without a good story, action can only carry a film so long. Rises gave us months of teasers and posters and hoopla about what was going to happen, but to be honest, we never actual have a clue of what Bane's end game is. We know he wants to tear down Gotham, but why? That is how well the movie was made. We already determined we were going to see because it is to be the end of an era, and The Dark Knight was so brilliant we wanted to see Nolan outdo himself, and he does. At 2 hours 45 minutes it was actually perfect. You may get some saying it was long while others want even more, but with absolutely no loose ends, one of the smartest plots of any film, let alone a Batman film, and total closure, I could not ask for more. There is only one thing I would have changes, but will not add spoilers in my review as I try never to. I did know it was special, but when it was over I was almost relieved. Not that it was over, but that it was as good as I had hoped, which historically speaking, third films in a franchise never live up. I did a lot of reading while avoiding spoilers, but I remember reading about some Batman Begins callbacks. I watched the night before and though I would not have been lost, it really refreshed my memory and I recommend that be the route you take before watching Rises. The mystery surrounding Bane is really the heart of this film, and Tom Hardy with his intimidating eyes, his glares, and his attitude is a complete scene stealer...MOVIE STEALER. Once it was all over I thought back to 3 hours prior and realized I had no idea what this film was going to be about. It begins with one of the coolest scenes ever. Full on action right out of the opening gates and I was in awe. It does take place 8 years after Harvey Dent dies, and The Batman hasn't been seen since. Neither has Bruce Wayne for that fact. He has become a shut in, a recluse if you will. He has no desire to get back in the suit, but Bane makes it pretty hard not to, and from here the plot get smart. It's a bit of a financial thriller to be honest, and we don't know why. It's very clear what is transpiring, but like I said, why? The slew of characters is brilliant. Gary Oldman back as Commissioner Gordon is brilliant as usual, but the new comers are even better than I could have imagined. I love Joseph Gordon Levitt, and he is a mere beat cop. The only difference is, he asks questions and he is intuitive. Honestly I didn't see him getting much screen time, but he is an intricate part of the entire film. Morgan Freeman returns as Lucius Fox, but Michael Cane as Alfred once again shows why he is one of the best actors of all time. His emotion on the big screen will make you emotional. Now we come to Selina Kyle, aka Catwoman. Dare I say it? I think I like the Anne Hathaway version better than Michelle Pfeiffer...GASP. I do, but I think it is more of a writing thing. I like where Nolan took her better than where Burton took her. She is beautiful, elegant, but can kick your ass in a hurry. She was a great addition. We could not ask for any better action than we got, and I also am glad I made this my first IMAX movie. It was Epic and I want to watch it again. I don't feel I need to tell you any more than I have, because you are already set whether you want to see it or not. It is one of those big screen movies that should be scene in that scale. I liked it better than The Avengers and I loved that movie, but I also like it better than The Dark Knight because Rises is very smart. Christopher Nolan claimed "Rises" will encompass "Finality" but I will let you decide. 


NBM rates The Dark Knight Rises - A Cinematic Work of Art

Friends With Kids

I was very curious in seeing how accurate a film could be when the Writer/Director/Star, Jennifer Westfeldt, doesn't have kids. Apparently very accurate, and very enjoyable, yet at times very depressing. This is the story of 6 friends who's lives take very different turns. No one in the film opposes marriage, but kids are what change everything. The 6 players are Leslie and Alex (Maya Rudolph & Chris O'Dowd) who were the first to be married and the first to have kids. Missy and Ben (Kristen Wiig and Jon Hamm) are the sexual couple of the film. Their relationship is based on pleasure, but they love each other. They also are married and have a kid. Lastly there is Julie and Jason (Jennifer Westfeldt & Adam Scott) who are not married and are not even involved with each other. They are best friends with absolutely no romantic feelings between them. As everyone's lives begin to move forward in the evolutionary process we all know as "normal",  Jason and Julie feel like everyone is doing it wrong. As they all get together a few years down the road, Alex and Leslie have 2 kids and Ben and Missy have one, Jason and Jules realize, these people are not the ones they were friends with. The daily stress of raising children, no time for romance let alone sex of any kind, they feel depressed for their friends and at the same time happy with their current lives of freedom and friendship. Then Jason comes up with the brilliant idea of being able to have a child without losing his mind. A mutual agreement between friends. They decide to have a kid together, keep their friendship in tact, split the responsibility 50/50, and keep their dating lives exactly the same. Nothing can go wrong here. Their friends take issue with it as it is an asinine idea, but they are adults and can do what they please. Jason and Jules hush the naysayers pretty quickly when the baby is born, but like all things new and exciting, they can quickly become taxing and exhaustive. Tensions begin to flair when each of the become involved with other people. Jason with Mary Jane (Megan Fox) and Julie with Kurt (Edward Burns). This is the point where decision have to be made, and no one wants to face the harsh reality that everyone but Jason and Julie knew would arise. It climaxes at what of the most intense and uncomfortable drunken dinner arguments of all time and lives are forever changed. This is one of the best films I have seen in a while, especially a film that deals with a topic so ordinary to 90% of the population. I really enjoyed it and if you have kids and are happy with your marriage you will too. If you have kids and hate your wife, this may just push you into divorce. It is an eye opener and you may not like what you see.


NBM rates Friends With Kids - Phenomenal

Moonrise Kingdom

This may very well be the greatest love story of all time. There are definitely some aspects that set this film apart from traditional love stories. For instance, the title characters are 13 years old. What does a 13 year old know? Apparently a lot when it comes to commitment and choice. This is the story of Sam and Susie, which in a few years should be as ubiquitous as Noah and Allie when one talks about love stories. I must admit I am biased right out of the gate with this film. This is one of those followings I tend to go head over heels for, and it has nothing to do with the film itself. It is the Writer/Director. Wes Anderson. He is a master of "his" craft. I say "his" this way because he makes films unlike anyone else in Hollywood. He shoots differently. Uses no frills or cheap tricks. All character driven pieces which all seem to come off very personal to him, and he makes no apologies for his work. The average movie goer may not like his style. It takes some getting used to considering it looks like it is shot with a Radio Shack camera in someone's spare time. Moonrise is set in 1965 which also plays well. He shoots this film in a sort of noir tone. Color tone that is, and it is perfect for dating it back some 40+ years. Sam does not fit in, and he decides to leave His Khaki Troop behind. On to bigger and better things. This is where we get a peer into the major plot of what is going on. On his journey he runs into Susie. This meeting is no accident. They are running away together. They both hate their lives and feel they can be happy together. The small water locked town sends out a search party for Sam, not even realizing Susie is with him. This is where Wes Anderson shines. His characters. Bruce Willis is the local cop who seems clueless, and yet is the most brilliant character on screen, besides the kids of course. Ed Norton plays the scoutmaster who "loses" Sam and this is one of his most earnest endearing characters he has ever portrayed. At first we think he might be a dick, but it turns out he is a really sweet guy who wants everyone to be happy. Then we have Susie's parents played by Bill "F*@%!ng" Murray (I know that's not his real middle name) and Francis McDormand. They are attorneys who I wished had more dialog with each other as it always came across very well, but alas this was a vehicle for the kids. With this all star cast of adults playing alongside a handful of kids no one has ever heard of, the kids stole the show. It is amazing. This is the ultimate coming of age film that speaks the way humans do. Not how Hollywood does. It is sweet and pure in every way. Everyone I know who has seen this has said it's his best film to date. Not for me. Personally it comes in 2nd, literally on the coattails of The Darjeeling Limited, but still one of the finest films you will see all year, and once it has the opportunity of a national audience on DVD, I believe it will grow the legs it currently does not have with such a minimal number of theaters taking a risk on it. I was pleased with the turnout for today's show. Noon on a Tuesday, there were 7 other people in there with me and that was spectacular to me. Oh ya, and Wes Anderson's muse, Jason Schwartzman shows up and also a surprising role from Harvey Keitel rounded it out. I loved it, and you may or may not. It depends on how you feel about Mr. Anderson.


NBM rates Moonrise Kingdom - A Cinematic Work of Art

Pirates of the Caribbean : On Stranger Tides

I don't know why it took me so long to see this. It was kind of a mental enigma in which my brain told me one thing, but did not take its own advice. I was excited to see a 4th film in a franchise that has faltered in recent films. Mostly because it was a new story. The writers had wrapped up the trilogy involving Jack Sparrow, Borbosa, Will Turner, and Elizabeth Swann and their twisted story. This film was going to be a completely unrelated tale continuing Jack Sparrow's travels and that prospect sounded fun. All the while, I feared it would be as mind numbingly awful as the critics said it would be and I will say it took a while to develop into, well, anything. The first 25 minutes is drivel. Nothing happens except the standard "Jack Sparrow escaping dire situations using brain powers and logic his character's speech and mannerisms would never suggest he possesses, while blaring the POTC score we have all come to love." Literally, we were like, what is the point? Luckily Depp delivers once again and makes it all tolerable while the waiting game continues for us, the audience. Once it does pick up, I still don't feel it was as strong as any of its predecessors. It just seemed thrown together. It did still have the wonderful fight scenes and choreography we have come to expect from the franchise, but the jokes were fewer. Depp delivers the majority of the moments that get us to exclaim a verbal HAHA, but that only happens 3 to 4 times. Keith Richards shows back up which I didn't expect, but essential with the addition of a few new characters it really is just another Pirates film, left open ended for a 5th installment. Black Beard (Ian McShane) and Angelica (Penelope Cruz) join Sparrow on the search for the fountain of youth. With a few new surprises along the way (Mermaids were cool) the film definitely wraps up better than it began and when it was over it was erased from my DVR never to be watched again. What On Stranger Tides lacked, compared to the previous films, are those moments great films have that we can watch over and over and over again. I have seen the other 3 films numerous times, but I don't think I'll watch this one again. It doesn't have that hook to get me to stop channel surfing to watch it for 20 or 30 minutes. That is what disappointed me the most, but overall it is very enjoyable and only because Depp is perfect at that character. Also I would have LOVED to see a cameo from Orlando Bloom as Will Turner as he is now Captain of Davy Jones' ship after the 3rd film. That would have been a welcomed call back for me.


NBM rates Pirates of the Caribbean : On Stranger Tides - Awesome

Puss in Boots

Today is a day I will forever remember. Today was the first time either of my kids watched a movie in the Theater. It so happened to be my daughter which was even more special since she doesn't seem to care for movies like her twin brother does. I wasn't sure how it would go since she is 3 and has the attention span of a...well, 3 year old child. She was in awe and truth be told, I watched her more than I watched the film. Granted I had seen it on DVD months ago, but it didn't matter. I will say this, Puss in Boots is funnier the second time around. I caught way more jokes and references this time. It uses the same model that all 4 Shrek movies did with the fairy tale lore. In P-I-B we deal with Humpty Dumpty, Jack and Jill, Magic Beans, and The Golden Goose. The story is solid as can be. A tale of betrayal, revenge, and sibling angst. Love, Lust, and dance fighting. When Puss is roped into helping his pal Humpty steal the magic beans, he has reservations, but with the help of Kitty Soft Paws (Salma Hayek) he can't fail. The action is superb and the imagination of the writers to throw new twists on old tales is greatly appreciated. I found myself laughing out loud more than any other child there. Of course I am WAY smarter than all kids. It is a fact. This film must be watched by anyone who likes good tales and great animation. Puss finds himself in more than one bad situation, but he always manages to get himself out of it. Will they sequel it? I'd say probably. Will I watch it? Definitely. A movie that I may not have given a second thought to, was ultimately enhanced for me by a 3 year old's excitement to watch "the biggest TV ever".


NBM rates Puss in Boots - Phenomenal