With the 2012 San Diego Comic Con having just concluded, and the release of The Dark Knight Rises just days away, moviegoers have many exciting things to look forward to over the next year. We're now six months away from The Hobbit, a year from the Superman reboot, and Iron Man 3 is currently in production. I thought I'd share my thoughts on these projects and more, and comment on their significance.
From the visionary director of The Lord of the Rings and King Kong, Peter Jackson returns to make The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, which will arrive in theatres on December 14. This is a film which countless fans have been waiting years for, based on the beloved novel by J.R.R. Tolkien. Starring Martin Freeman (Bilbo Baggins), Ian McKellen (Gandalf), Hugo Weaving (Elrond), Cate Blanchett (Galadriel), Christopher Lee (Saruman), Billy Connolly (Dain Ironfoot), Richard Armitage (Thorin Oakenshield), and Andy Serkis (Gollum), this prequel to LOTR tells Bilbo's exciting adventure with Gandalf and a band of dwarves, and of how he comes to find the Ring.
With Jackson's previous works being virtually flawless, his innate artistic ability for storytelling makes this picture a guaranteed success. Furthermore, the equally gifted filmmaker Guillermo del Toro (Pan's Labyrinth, Hellboy) has collaborated with Jackson on the film's screenplay. At the Comic Con, over twelve minutes of footage were released for viewing pleasure, and fans were quite pleased. I know of at least one character in the film not found in the Tolkien universe, but aside from this there don't seem to be any major liberties from the source material. Either way, the trailer and online footage reveal how visually spectacular this film will be; and I feel that Martin Freeman will really compliment Ian Holm's performance in LOTR, while bringing something fresh and compelling to Bilbo's character.
Another exciting upcoming fantasy film is Oz: The Great and Powerful, set to release next Spring. Director Sam Raimi (The Spider-Man Trilogy) tells the story of the origins of the Wizard himself, portrayed by James Franco, and how he came to the land of Oz. The legendary Oz creator L. Frank Baum wrote over 14 Oz novels and short stories, many which influenced the classic 1939 film and Wicked, both the book and musical.
A trailer for this movie was released just a few days ago, and it reveals the cinematic brilliance and imaginative spirit presented in Raimi's previous films. Producer Joe Roth (Alice in Wonderland, Snow White and the Huntsman) is also a very good choice, as I think his vision will really compliment Raimi's very effectively. Having seen Wicked on Broadway, Oz fans have seen hints of the Wizard's origin, but this film will explore his story in much greater depth. Other cast members include Mila Kunis (Theodora), Rachel Weisz (Evanora), and Michelle Williams (Glinda). So as long as Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire's script proves to be effective, I think this film will be an excellent addition to the Oz legacy.
Now for the Superman reboot, Man of Steel, directed by Zack Snyder (300, Watchmen). Now that it's been over 30 years since Richard Donner's classic 1978 film, and Nolan's Batman trilogy is at an end, it's time for DC to return to Krypton, and hopefully open up enough doors for a Justice League movie.
I have a few concerns regarding the cast, but I definitely approve of the production team (even though I wish Nolan was directing). Producers include Christopher Nolan, Charles Roven, and Emma Thomas; and the screenplay is by Nolan and David S. Goyer. This trilogy will be based heavily upon Red Son and The Death of Superman, along with other more modern Superman graphic novels. Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale's Superman For All Seasons is a particular favorite of mine. Snyder says he approached this project as if this was the first Superman film ever made, setting high goals and really seeking to capture the essence of the character's story in a way like never before. Hans Zimmer is also certainly a worthy composer to live up to John Williams' iconic score in the original.
The film will star Henry Cavill (Clark Kent/Superman), Russell Crowe (Jor-El), Amy Adams (Lois Lane), Kevin Costner (Jonathan Kent), Diane Lane (Martha Kent), Laurence Fishburne (Perry White), Jadin Gould (Lana Lang), and Michael Shannon (General Zod). While Crowe and Fishburne are great actors, I don't really see them as the characters they're portraying here. Crowe is best in his action hero roles. I'm having trouble envisioning him as the elderly father/mentor figure from another world. And as far as Fishburne playing White, I'm not racist or anything, but I don't see the need in changing a well known character's race. I'd say the same thing if they made John Stewart white in a Green Lantern film. To me, someone like Ed Asner would be a great choice to play White, which he actually did in an animated film. Aside from that, I don't know much about Cavill, but he seems to look the part okay. I kinda wish Brandon Routh hadn't wasted his time with Bryan Singer's Superman Returns, and been available now. Overall, I think this series has a lot of potential so long as Snyder's vision is consistent with that of both fans and everyone at DC.
As far as the sequel to J.J. Abrams' Star Trek, little information is available at this time. Abrams is definitely returning to direct, with screenwriters Alex Kurtzman, Roberto Orci, and Damon Lindelof; and it is rumored that Khan will be the villain. I've read some of the new comics, which are primarily based on episodes from the original series. With the 2009 film having such an appeal to hard core fans as well as those new to the characters, I have no doubt this film will be just as fantastic.
That's it for now. I look forward to reviewing each of these films, and I will keep my readers updated on all the latest movie news. Until then, Live Long and Prosper my friends.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Reflections
Well, I've had quite a lot going on in my life the last few months, so I'd thought I'd reflect on some of the major events, and discuss how they've helped me grow as a writer. In March I went to New York City with my parents to celebrate my high school graduation, and saw "Phantom of the Opera" and "Wicked" on Broadway. I graduated in June, and am now getting ready to study at NC State in the fall.
New York was easily one of the best trips I've ever taken, and I have done a good bit of travelling around the country. We left early Friday morning to see Phantom that night. It was about a nine hour drive, so we arrived at our hotel in Times Square at about 3:00 in the afternoon. The first place we ate at was John's Pizza, a gourmet restaurant that trampled any slice I'd ever had before. Bubba Gump Shrimp was the next best meal, which we had the next day for lunch. I especially liked the Forrest Gump merchandise and trivia they had.
Both shows were indescribable, but I would have to say Phantom was my favorite. Andrew Lloyd Webber's vision is what makes this the longest running show on Broadway. My Dad and I sat in the fifth row, which made it feel like we were a part of the story as we were surrounded by dazzling visual effects. Hugh Panaro portrayed the Phantom, and he was perhaps the best tenor I've ever heard sing. The entire ensemble was fantastic, especially for theatre goers like myself, and I was absolutely mesmerized by the story.
We then saw Wicked the next night. Having at last seen the hit musical, I will now never watch Wizard of Oz the same again. This stirring prequel to the timeless classic has swept audiences everywhere with it's mind-boggling technical aspects and incredible songs. I now find myself listening to the soundtrack almost weekly. From the elaborate costuming and set designs, to the stirring performances, this show has come to set new standards within the world of musical theatre.
We also visited the Wax Museum in Times Square, the M&M store, the Empire State Building, and went to Times Square Church on Palm Sunday. All in all, I couldn't of asked for a better way to celebrate graduation, and the atmosphere was perfect. I remember imagining myself making a movie there as I was looking out the window of a cafe.
Graduation snuck up on all of us, and it was quite difficult saying goodbye to close friends as we thought about all our times together. Nevertheless, I am very excited about NC State, and just had orientation earlier this week. I plan to study English with a concentration in Creative Writing and Film Studies. My ultimate goal is to write and produce movies, but I'd also like to teach and critique. I actually bought a Roger Ebert book while I was in New York which has been very beneficial in terms of my writing. At orientation, I really enjoyed meeting several other Freshmen in my department, as we each shared similar interests. On the second day we registered for 1st semester classes, and I was able to get into both Intro to Film and Studies in Fiction. I am certainly looking forward to my time at the University, and this blog has been a great way for me to practice my skills which will be vital for my career.
I also went to some really cool events at my local Barnes & Noble a few weeks ago. One was a screenwriting group which meets there monthly on Monday nights. There were about eight other people in attendance, and we had a great time exchanging scripts with one another and giving feedback. There was one guy who teaches at Appalachian, who brought a 60 page teleplay for a superhero show he had been working on. This was a really compelling plot line, and I certainly learned a lot in that short amount of time.
The next night I went back for a discussion panel with a group of Science Fiction and Fantasy authors. These included David Drake (Lord of the Isles) and James Maxey (Dragonseed). I had the pleasure of asking them questions and learning about how they approach the craft. Other audience members were equally intrigued, and I am very glad to have made it.
The rest of the summer should be pretty good as well. I'm leaving for Surfside beach next Saturday with my family, and will be doing some work over at Raleigh Little Theatre after that. I'll have just enough time before I leave to do a write-up of Dark Knight Rises as I'm going to the midnight showing.
I have a bit of a health issue to quarrel with over the next few months, as my doctor informed me that I have some mucus within my chest. This means I have to go from one PT session a day to four (each twenty minutes). It's not as serious as it sounds, but when you're physically disabled you can't be too careful. That being said, I spend a lot of time at home reading and writing.
I apologize for this being such a lengthy post, but I thought it appropriate to provide some updates on what's going on in my life since I've now had this blog for a year. I'm excited to see what the Lord has in store for my future.
New York was easily one of the best trips I've ever taken, and I have done a good bit of travelling around the country. We left early Friday morning to see Phantom that night. It was about a nine hour drive, so we arrived at our hotel in Times Square at about 3:00 in the afternoon. The first place we ate at was John's Pizza, a gourmet restaurant that trampled any slice I'd ever had before. Bubba Gump Shrimp was the next best meal, which we had the next day for lunch. I especially liked the Forrest Gump merchandise and trivia they had.
Both shows were indescribable, but I would have to say Phantom was my favorite. Andrew Lloyd Webber's vision is what makes this the longest running show on Broadway. My Dad and I sat in the fifth row, which made it feel like we were a part of the story as we were surrounded by dazzling visual effects. Hugh Panaro portrayed the Phantom, and he was perhaps the best tenor I've ever heard sing. The entire ensemble was fantastic, especially for theatre goers like myself, and I was absolutely mesmerized by the story.
We then saw Wicked the next night. Having at last seen the hit musical, I will now never watch Wizard of Oz the same again. This stirring prequel to the timeless classic has swept audiences everywhere with it's mind-boggling technical aspects and incredible songs. I now find myself listening to the soundtrack almost weekly. From the elaborate costuming and set designs, to the stirring performances, this show has come to set new standards within the world of musical theatre.
We also visited the Wax Museum in Times Square, the M&M store, the Empire State Building, and went to Times Square Church on Palm Sunday. All in all, I couldn't of asked for a better way to celebrate graduation, and the atmosphere was perfect. I remember imagining myself making a movie there as I was looking out the window of a cafe.
Graduation snuck up on all of us, and it was quite difficult saying goodbye to close friends as we thought about all our times together. Nevertheless, I am very excited about NC State, and just had orientation earlier this week. I plan to study English with a concentration in Creative Writing and Film Studies. My ultimate goal is to write and produce movies, but I'd also like to teach and critique. I actually bought a Roger Ebert book while I was in New York which has been very beneficial in terms of my writing. At orientation, I really enjoyed meeting several other Freshmen in my department, as we each shared similar interests. On the second day we registered for 1st semester classes, and I was able to get into both Intro to Film and Studies in Fiction. I am certainly looking forward to my time at the University, and this blog has been a great way for me to practice my skills which will be vital for my career.
I also went to some really cool events at my local Barnes & Noble a few weeks ago. One was a screenwriting group which meets there monthly on Monday nights. There were about eight other people in attendance, and we had a great time exchanging scripts with one another and giving feedback. There was one guy who teaches at Appalachian, who brought a 60 page teleplay for a superhero show he had been working on. This was a really compelling plot line, and I certainly learned a lot in that short amount of time.
The next night I went back for a discussion panel with a group of Science Fiction and Fantasy authors. These included David Drake (Lord of the Isles) and James Maxey (Dragonseed). I had the pleasure of asking them questions and learning about how they approach the craft. Other audience members were equally intrigued, and I am very glad to have made it.
The rest of the summer should be pretty good as well. I'm leaving for Surfside beach next Saturday with my family, and will be doing some work over at Raleigh Little Theatre after that. I'll have just enough time before I leave to do a write-up of Dark Knight Rises as I'm going to the midnight showing.
I have a bit of a health issue to quarrel with over the next few months, as my doctor informed me that I have some mucus within my chest. This means I have to go from one PT session a day to four (each twenty minutes). It's not as serious as it sounds, but when you're physically disabled you can't be too careful. That being said, I spend a lot of time at home reading and writing.
I apologize for this being such a lengthy post, but I thought it appropriate to provide some updates on what's going on in my life since I've now had this blog for a year. I'm excited to see what the Lord has in store for my future.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
The Amazing Spider-Man
****
Dir. Marc Webb
Let me start by saying that I've known about this project for about two years, and was adamantly opposed to it for quite some time. Even though Spider-Man 3 was an abomination, why reboot the franchise when it's barely been a decade since the original? However, having now seen the film I was rather impressed.
Director Marc Webb sheds a different light on the web-slinging superhero than the Sam Raimi version; and I might add one that is more accurate to the original comics. This story opens with the young Peter Parker being abandoned by his parents, and left with his Uncle Ben (Martin Sheen) and Aunt May (Sally Field). As a teenager, Peter (Andrew Garfield) suffers from the emotionally unresolved conflicts he carries with him. Seeking to discover the truth about his parents, he gathers every last item in his house he can find; which leads him to his father's former partner Dr. Curt Connors (Rhys Ifans), who now works for Oscorp. As Connors works on a biogenetic formula designed to enhance human potential, Parker's curiosity leads him to a lab within Oscorp where he is bitten by the radioactive spider which changes his life.
When he first discovers his powers, he uses them for mischief and such, all the while his mind is occupied by the attractive and intelligent Gwen Stacey (Emma Stone), a student of Connors. Yet when Ben Parker is murdered (the sequence is reminiscent of that in the Sam Raimi film, but still different), Peter transforms into the Amazing Spider-Man. As he begins his crime-fighting career, he instantly makes enemies with Gwen's father Police Captain Stacey (Denis Leary), who will stop at nothing to bring the vigilante to justice. Not long after, Connors becomes The Lizard, wreaking havoc upon the streets of New York. Being the only one who can stop this monster, Spider-Man must use every bit of strength within him to prove that his city needs him.
With a very well composed script, and terrific visual effects, this film certainly exceeded my expectations. Webb made excellent use of the lighting and cinematography to produce this dark atmosphere, which reflected the internal conflicts of Peter's character. The pacing was just right, and it was formatted so as to follow the structure of a good epic. Watching the hero progress from a lost and conflicted adolescent to a fearless and noble man was very intriguing. I especially liked how the second to last scene takes place in an English class, where the teacher is lecturing on structuring fiction. Webb used many elements and motifs which broke away from the standard structure for a summer blockbuster. Hence, this was a fresh and compelling plot line with great characterization, and effects which are worthy of comparison to visionaries such as James Cameron and Christopher Nolan.
Dir. Marc Webb
Let me start by saying that I've known about this project for about two years, and was adamantly opposed to it for quite some time. Even though Spider-Man 3 was an abomination, why reboot the franchise when it's barely been a decade since the original? However, having now seen the film I was rather impressed.
Director Marc Webb sheds a different light on the web-slinging superhero than the Sam Raimi version; and I might add one that is more accurate to the original comics. This story opens with the young Peter Parker being abandoned by his parents, and left with his Uncle Ben (Martin Sheen) and Aunt May (Sally Field). As a teenager, Peter (Andrew Garfield) suffers from the emotionally unresolved conflicts he carries with him. Seeking to discover the truth about his parents, he gathers every last item in his house he can find; which leads him to his father's former partner Dr. Curt Connors (Rhys Ifans), who now works for Oscorp. As Connors works on a biogenetic formula designed to enhance human potential, Parker's curiosity leads him to a lab within Oscorp where he is bitten by the radioactive spider which changes his life.
When he first discovers his powers, he uses them for mischief and such, all the while his mind is occupied by the attractive and intelligent Gwen Stacey (Emma Stone), a student of Connors. Yet when Ben Parker is murdered (the sequence is reminiscent of that in the Sam Raimi film, but still different), Peter transforms into the Amazing Spider-Man. As he begins his crime-fighting career, he instantly makes enemies with Gwen's father Police Captain Stacey (Denis Leary), who will stop at nothing to bring the vigilante to justice. Not long after, Connors becomes The Lizard, wreaking havoc upon the streets of New York. Being the only one who can stop this monster, Spider-Man must use every bit of strength within him to prove that his city needs him.
With a very well composed script, and terrific visual effects, this film certainly exceeded my expectations. Webb made excellent use of the lighting and cinematography to produce this dark atmosphere, which reflected the internal conflicts of Peter's character. The pacing was just right, and it was formatted so as to follow the structure of a good epic. Watching the hero progress from a lost and conflicted adolescent to a fearless and noble man was very intriguing. I especially liked how the second to last scene takes place in an English class, where the teacher is lecturing on structuring fiction. Webb used many elements and motifs which broke away from the standard structure for a summer blockbuster. Hence, this was a fresh and compelling plot line with great characterization, and effects which are worthy of comparison to visionaries such as James Cameron and Christopher Nolan.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Brave
****
Dir. Mark Andrews, Brenda Chapman, Steve Purcell
I think it's safe to say that it's pretty much impossible for Pixar to make a bad film. This is just a group of people who have a genuine passion for the art, and who devote themselves to producing great movies. Their latest picture is Brave, a comedic fantasy that features an adventure seeking Princess who desires nothing more than to abandon the life her pompous mother has made for her. With three directors: Mark Andrews, Brenda Chapman, and Steve Purcell; and four screenwriters: Brenda Chapman, Irene Micchi, Mark Andrews, and Steve Purcell; this film indeed does justice to Pixar's previous works.
This is an original and compelling story (not the best but fair) that appeals to a wide range of audiences. Merida (Kelly MacDonald) wishes to change her fate when her mother Elinor (Emma Thompson) arranges for the lords of the neighboring clans to compete for her hand in marriage. Her father Fergus (Billy Connolly) is the ruler of an ancient kingdom, seeking to unite the surrounding territories. When Merida attempts to escape from this, she ventures into a nearby forest and encounters a mysterious witch (Julie Walters), who promises the Princess she can change her fate. Yet when Merida uses the potion given to her by the witch, it causes her mother to experience a bizzarre transformation which they have but forty-eight hours to revoke. Their journey enables them to discover things about one another, and challenges them to use the deepest layers of their courage in order to overcome the various obstacles they face.
Like any Pixar film, the animation is absolutely spectacular. Executive Producers John Lasseter, Pete Doctor, and Andrew Stanton spent years working on developing the details of Merida's hair alone, along with the many other characters and settings. There are scenes overlooking the country that sent chills down my spine because they're so beautifully constructed. The artistic value of each shot is worthy of comparison to visionaries such as Peter Jackson and Ridley Scott. Yeah, it's that good. Composer Patrick Doyle also does a great job of making each score correlate with the mood of the story.
Although the story doesn't have the same emotional intrigue as Toy Story or Finding Nemo, what makes it so captivating is that it's a visual spectacle. There's a good amount of laughs, unique characters, and magnificent cinematography. Although it will have to compete with Paranorman and Frankenweenie, this one will definitely be in the running for best animated film of the year.
Dir. Mark Andrews, Brenda Chapman, Steve Purcell
I think it's safe to say that it's pretty much impossible for Pixar to make a bad film. This is just a group of people who have a genuine passion for the art, and who devote themselves to producing great movies. Their latest picture is Brave, a comedic fantasy that features an adventure seeking Princess who desires nothing more than to abandon the life her pompous mother has made for her. With three directors: Mark Andrews, Brenda Chapman, and Steve Purcell; and four screenwriters: Brenda Chapman, Irene Micchi, Mark Andrews, and Steve Purcell; this film indeed does justice to Pixar's previous works.
This is an original and compelling story (not the best but fair) that appeals to a wide range of audiences. Merida (Kelly MacDonald) wishes to change her fate when her mother Elinor (Emma Thompson) arranges for the lords of the neighboring clans to compete for her hand in marriage. Her father Fergus (Billy Connolly) is the ruler of an ancient kingdom, seeking to unite the surrounding territories. When Merida attempts to escape from this, she ventures into a nearby forest and encounters a mysterious witch (Julie Walters), who promises the Princess she can change her fate. Yet when Merida uses the potion given to her by the witch, it causes her mother to experience a bizzarre transformation which they have but forty-eight hours to revoke. Their journey enables them to discover things about one another, and challenges them to use the deepest layers of their courage in order to overcome the various obstacles they face.
Like any Pixar film, the animation is absolutely spectacular. Executive Producers John Lasseter, Pete Doctor, and Andrew Stanton spent years working on developing the details of Merida's hair alone, along with the many other characters and settings. There are scenes overlooking the country that sent chills down my spine because they're so beautifully constructed. The artistic value of each shot is worthy of comparison to visionaries such as Peter Jackson and Ridley Scott. Yeah, it's that good. Composer Patrick Doyle also does a great job of making each score correlate with the mood of the story.
Although the story doesn't have the same emotional intrigue as Toy Story or Finding Nemo, what makes it so captivating is that it's a visual spectacle. There's a good amount of laughs, unique characters, and magnificent cinematography. Although it will have to compete with Paranorman and Frankenweenie, this one will definitely be in the running for best animated film of the year.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Season Premiere of TNT's Falling Skies
It's very rare that a show on T.V. will really capture my attention. I'll turn on TBS or whatever if I'm looking for a good laugh, but it's been quite a long time since an original and compelling series got me hooked. However, last year on TNT, Falling Skies did exactly that.
Created by Robert Rodat, this sci-fi series starring Noah Wyle, takes place in a post apocalyptic society in which extraterrestrials have launched a full scale invasion of Earth. Leading a human resistance, a history teacher named Tom Mason (Wyle) seeks to liberate the planet from this otherworldly threat. With the help of his three sons and his good friend Captain Weaver (Will Patton), this band of freedom-fighters poses a significant challenge to their alien opponents.
In this new season, the stakes are continually increasing as Tom's middle son Ben (Connor Jessup) remains traumatized from being enslaved by their enemies. There is also tensions among various members of the resistance. Although a loose alliance remains between them and the hot headed vigilante type figure John Pope (Colin Cunningham), Captain Weaver remains unable to trust the gunslinger. Then, in a climactic sequence in part two, a parasite infects Tom and causes him to behave in an uncontrolled manner. Although his allies are able to remove it, the strange substance escapes their clutches, and it is uncertain as to where it will strike next.
What I really liked about this episode, and about the series in general, is the psychological factors it examines regarding human nature. We see how the aliens' greatest weapons are fear and hatred. Beyond the explosive battle sequences and special effects, the show is an accurate depiction of how we ourselves would react in the midst of a hostile environment. Tom's character is the ideal model of leadership, as his courage and strength enable him to invoke a spirit of hope among the resistance members. Now, as the battle is heating up, the fate of humanity will depend on the faith of these survivors. The artistic manner in which this show is presented puts it right up there with Star Trek and Firefly. Hence, with a great script, an all star cast, and brilliantly executed visual effects, Falling Skies is definitely one I'll be watching throughout the summer.
Created by Robert Rodat, this sci-fi series starring Noah Wyle, takes place in a post apocalyptic society in which extraterrestrials have launched a full scale invasion of Earth. Leading a human resistance, a history teacher named Tom Mason (Wyle) seeks to liberate the planet from this otherworldly threat. With the help of his three sons and his good friend Captain Weaver (Will Patton), this band of freedom-fighters poses a significant challenge to their alien opponents.
In this new season, the stakes are continually increasing as Tom's middle son Ben (Connor Jessup) remains traumatized from being enslaved by their enemies. There is also tensions among various members of the resistance. Although a loose alliance remains between them and the hot headed vigilante type figure John Pope (Colin Cunningham), Captain Weaver remains unable to trust the gunslinger. Then, in a climactic sequence in part two, a parasite infects Tom and causes him to behave in an uncontrolled manner. Although his allies are able to remove it, the strange substance escapes their clutches, and it is uncertain as to where it will strike next.
What I really liked about this episode, and about the series in general, is the psychological factors it examines regarding human nature. We see how the aliens' greatest weapons are fear and hatred. Beyond the explosive battle sequences and special effects, the show is an accurate depiction of how we ourselves would react in the midst of a hostile environment. Tom's character is the ideal model of leadership, as his courage and strength enable him to invoke a spirit of hope among the resistance members. Now, as the battle is heating up, the fate of humanity will depend on the faith of these survivors. The artistic manner in which this show is presented puts it right up there with Star Trek and Firefly. Hence, with a great script, an all star cast, and brilliantly executed visual effects, Falling Skies is definitely one I'll be watching throughout the summer.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Prometheus
*****
Dir. Ridley Scott
Ever since the classic 1979 film Alien, Ridley Scott has revolutionized the science fiction genre in cinema. Prometheus combines the essence of the Alien saga with stirring 21st century special effects. Set in 2093, the crew of Prometheus ventures into the far reaches of space to explore the origins of mankind. The members of this expedition include Dr. Elizabeth Shaw (Noomi Rapace), an advanced robotic organism named David (Michael Fassbender), the ship's Captain Janek (Idris Elba), Shaw's boyfriend Dr. Holloway (Logan Marshall-Green), and the stern and secretive Meredith Vickers (Charlize Theron).
Before I get into what I liked, I feel obligated to inform readers about the controversial messages expressed through the film. As with many sci-fi stories, it puts heavy emphasis on evolutionary themes. As a Christian, I despise evolution altogether. Furthermore, I don't like that it's being presented in schools and through the media as fact and not theory. The film depicts the origins of humanity as being spawned from an alien civilization, and questions creation at many points. Hence, I would advise you to be cautious of this going in.
Nevertheless, Scott and screenwriters Jon Spaihts and Damon Lindelof provide viewers with a unique and compelling story line that intrigues sci-fi fans in particular. The foundations of the plot are connected to Alien, but I wouldn't call the film a prequel. It's centered mainly around the species which the crew encounters, and what they come to discover about the human race. With graphic images and brutally violent encounters between the humans and extraterrestrials, the picture is horrific to say the least, making the original look like a walk in the park. Scott does a great job of pacing the story, despite the ending being a bit rushed; and cinematographer Dariusz Wolski is remarkable in creating this dark, otherworldly atmosphere. I had the pleasure of seeing it in IMAX 3-D, which I would say enhances the viewing experience effectively. It being shot with 3-D cameras, you can actually feel the floor vibrating when the ship takes off. Hence, despite my disagreements with some of the themes presented, I thought the film was very intriguing and certainly a visual spectacle.
Dir. Ridley Scott
Ever since the classic 1979 film Alien, Ridley Scott has revolutionized the science fiction genre in cinema. Prometheus combines the essence of the Alien saga with stirring 21st century special effects. Set in 2093, the crew of Prometheus ventures into the far reaches of space to explore the origins of mankind. The members of this expedition include Dr. Elizabeth Shaw (Noomi Rapace), an advanced robotic organism named David (Michael Fassbender), the ship's Captain Janek (Idris Elba), Shaw's boyfriend Dr. Holloway (Logan Marshall-Green), and the stern and secretive Meredith Vickers (Charlize Theron).
Before I get into what I liked, I feel obligated to inform readers about the controversial messages expressed through the film. As with many sci-fi stories, it puts heavy emphasis on evolutionary themes. As a Christian, I despise evolution altogether. Furthermore, I don't like that it's being presented in schools and through the media as fact and not theory. The film depicts the origins of humanity as being spawned from an alien civilization, and questions creation at many points. Hence, I would advise you to be cautious of this going in.
Nevertheless, Scott and screenwriters Jon Spaihts and Damon Lindelof provide viewers with a unique and compelling story line that intrigues sci-fi fans in particular. The foundations of the plot are connected to Alien, but I wouldn't call the film a prequel. It's centered mainly around the species which the crew encounters, and what they come to discover about the human race. With graphic images and brutally violent encounters between the humans and extraterrestrials, the picture is horrific to say the least, making the original look like a walk in the park. Scott does a great job of pacing the story, despite the ending being a bit rushed; and cinematographer Dariusz Wolski is remarkable in creating this dark, otherworldly atmosphere. I had the pleasure of seeing it in IMAX 3-D, which I would say enhances the viewing experience effectively. It being shot with 3-D cameras, you can actually feel the floor vibrating when the ship takes off. Hence, despite my disagreements with some of the themes presented, I thought the film was very intriguing and certainly a visual spectacle.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Snow White and the Huntsman
***
Dir. Rupert Sanders
It's been a while since we've seen a really solid and original fantasy film. The last I can think of off the top of my head is Guillermo del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth. However, Rupert Sanders' Snow White and the Huntsman is a fresh and compelling take on the classic fairy tale character.
In this story, we see the origins of Snow White (Kristen Stewart) and of the kingdom she is destined to inherit, which falls under the rule of the wicked Queen Ravenna (Charlize Theron) and her phantom army. After years of imprisonement, the Princess manages to escape the clutches of her arch-nemesis, only to be pursued by a hired Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth). Yet when he, a widower promised by the Queen that she would resurrect his wife if he did her bidding, discovers he too had been deceived by her wickedness, he then allies himself with Snow White (unaware of her identity). The two then venture through the dangers and perils of the Dark Forest; with the Princess intending to make contact with the former Duke of the Kingdom and all the rest who had served her father during his reign. It is here that they encounter the seven dwarves, a band of gold miners who are in no way reminiscent of Disney's version (an aspect I was completely fine with as this is intended to be a much darker adaptation). The plot also features the poison apple, as well as the kiss from Snow White's true love which reawakens her. Upon her resurrection, the Princess leads the Huntsman and all those loyal to her to defeat Ravenna and restore her father's Kingdom to its former glory.
What really stood out about this film to me was the script. Screenwriters Evan Daugherty, John Lee Hancock, and Hossein Amini did a really nice job of incorporating a multitude of characters and events into one clear and precise story. The very essence of it brought together a wide range of elements from classic fantasy and mythology, while appealing to a modern audience. Furthermore, the pacing of the script complimented Sanders's vision very effectively. Producers such as Joe Roth (Alice in Wonderland) and Sam Mercer (The Sixth Sense) did a fantastic job of constructing this fantasy world, and correlating with the lighting and cinematography. This dark atmosphere opened up a lot of room for various motifs to be expressed through the different creatures and settings. Then, the action scenes were really well executed and there was a great amount of detail devoted to each shot. All in all, the film contained a great cast, a solid storyline, and an artistic vision from Sanders that has the ability to engage a wide range of viewers.
Dir. Rupert Sanders
It's been a while since we've seen a really solid and original fantasy film. The last I can think of off the top of my head is Guillermo del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth. However, Rupert Sanders' Snow White and the Huntsman is a fresh and compelling take on the classic fairy tale character.
In this story, we see the origins of Snow White (Kristen Stewart) and of the kingdom she is destined to inherit, which falls under the rule of the wicked Queen Ravenna (Charlize Theron) and her phantom army. After years of imprisonement, the Princess manages to escape the clutches of her arch-nemesis, only to be pursued by a hired Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth). Yet when he, a widower promised by the Queen that she would resurrect his wife if he did her bidding, discovers he too had been deceived by her wickedness, he then allies himself with Snow White (unaware of her identity). The two then venture through the dangers and perils of the Dark Forest; with the Princess intending to make contact with the former Duke of the Kingdom and all the rest who had served her father during his reign. It is here that they encounter the seven dwarves, a band of gold miners who are in no way reminiscent of Disney's version (an aspect I was completely fine with as this is intended to be a much darker adaptation). The plot also features the poison apple, as well as the kiss from Snow White's true love which reawakens her. Upon her resurrection, the Princess leads the Huntsman and all those loyal to her to defeat Ravenna and restore her father's Kingdom to its former glory.
What really stood out about this film to me was the script. Screenwriters Evan Daugherty, John Lee Hancock, and Hossein Amini did a really nice job of incorporating a multitude of characters and events into one clear and precise story. The very essence of it brought together a wide range of elements from classic fantasy and mythology, while appealing to a modern audience. Furthermore, the pacing of the script complimented Sanders's vision very effectively. Producers such as Joe Roth (Alice in Wonderland) and Sam Mercer (The Sixth Sense) did a fantastic job of constructing this fantasy world, and correlating with the lighting and cinematography. This dark atmosphere opened up a lot of room for various motifs to be expressed through the different creatures and settings. Then, the action scenes were really well executed and there was a great amount of detail devoted to each shot. All in all, the film contained a great cast, a solid storyline, and an artistic vision from Sanders that has the ability to engage a wide range of viewers.
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