Valkyrie (2008)

“Long Live Sacred Germany!”

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in association with 20th Century Fox, Bad Hat Harry Productions, Cruise/Wagner Productions and Studio Babelsberg present

To mention first, what an outstanding line-up provided by Roger Mussendan and for Bryan Singer in making this film truly remarkable, tragic yes, but with full of pride and dignity!

Christopher McQuarrie and Nathan Alexander gave a very well written piece of work, given the facts and how it was relayed was simply amazing! To add, United Artists took part for producing the film, of course Tom Cruise as part owner can be given credit for developing films such as this one with MGM’s blessing!

Music was great! John Ottman is one of my favorites, very precise and coherent in making scenes surreal to the human ears!

A thought provoking film, based on true events suspense thriller!

This is the story of how brave men fought for what is right and for justice not just to Jews everywhere but to all lives that were shattered by a man consumed with malignant despotism and convoluted thinking of the strongest survives!

In the opening credits what puzzles, disturbs me is that an oath was being screen captured with a background of voices, men swearing allegiance to Hitler’s predestined rule. It states:

I swear by God this sacred oath:

That I shall render unconditional obedience to Adolf Hitler, Fuhrer of the German Reich and its people, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

And that I shall at all times be ready as a brave soldier, to give my life for this oath…

On what planet does Hitler and his army acknowledges a God that they have persecuted and for His people, millions that lost their lives from this madman! This is blasphemy!!!

The film will be reviewed, narrowed down per date and location to signify what was documented and give meaning to what has brought this heroism and patriotism from these unfortunate events!

WHO IS CHOSEN?

The German 10th Panzer Division – Tunisia, North Africa

A soldier, an officer of the German Reich bereaved by conscience writes down a memoir of what has become of their actions and what must be done. Torn asunder to protect and serve his country or to save human lives.

Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg (Tom Cruise) finds ways and means to get the remaining soldiers back home safe. In which a sudden attack commenced that left him for dead, riddled in bullets while trying to escape.

This shows how a certain character who endows compassion for his men and his country is brought forth to pursue, to fight what is deemed necessary!

The German Eastern Front – Smolensk, Russia

March 13, 1943

Major General Henning von Treshkow (Kenneth Branagh) awaits the landing of the Adolf Hitler (David Bamber) for a lunch meeting.

Maj. Gen. Treschkow and a cohort is trying to assassinate the Fuhrer with a wine, here we can see the culmination of casting that will be tying ends as we go along with the story!

It’s only a matter of time how their actions will make a difference for the rest of their lives!

Army High Command Berlin

A wrong bottle for trouble, there are plenty of ways to kill the most hated man on Earth but you need more planning and men! Enter General Friedrich Olbricht (Bill Nighy) whose tense disposition and delivery has made his character a little more culpable of doubt and speculations, nevertheless I was glad he was one of the good guys here!

We follow how Colonel Heinz Brandt (Thomas Hollander) while handing over the bottle, he senses an instigated plot, making a gesture of an assassination attempt that keeps Treshkow his abrupt visitor on his feet, careful answers must be uttered for he is threading on thin ice.

First General Military Hospital – Munich, Germany

Nina von Stauffenberg (Carice van Houten) abruptness, answers how she was relieved to see a broken husband, his dignity intact as he wears his uniform and provide medals of honor for his men, we can see how it breaks his heart providing them with pieces of metal while they have lost pieces of their body and their life!

Having said, it is better to be branded a traitor than to live a life of lie!!!

A secret meeting was held in a private residence where a handful of men both from Political undertakings and military officers have banded together to usurp the government of Hitler. These men value more their principles rather than personal gains! Ludwig Beck (Terrence Stamp) and Dr. Carl Goerdelar (Kevin McNally) lead the charge for a clear and swift eradication of the madness of one man and his malevolent army!

So unravelled the story’s premise, Valkyrie maidens of the gods who chooses those who dies in a battle! To connect its purpose, it was a plan that gave reasons of overthrowing the government through cover up of civil unrest or death of the Fuhrer! What follows are making the preparations come into fruition, to streamline operations and execute it with any means necessary!

THE CHOSEN ONES

Reich War Ministry – Berlin, Germany

Gen. Olbricht and Col. Stauffenberg meet with General Friedrich Fromm (Tom Wilkinson), Commander of Hitler’s reserve army, talking sense on what would transpire on the Colonel’s move into the War Ministry and gives hints on what will become on the new order!

Enter, General Erich Fellgiebel (Eddie Izzard) being convinced by Col. Stauffenberg to join their ranks and play a big role in making the assassination go smoothly as possible as he covers the Wolf’s Lair’s communications!

Valkyrie was being edited in an undisclosed place… along with Maj. Gen. Treschkow, handing over the responsibilities and re-iterating that this mission is absolute and there will be no margin for errors!

Sodom and Gomorrah’s sinful ways, Maj. Gen. Treschkow mentioned that Abraham asked God if the cities had 10 people would He destroy them? And God answered no, the only difference for Germany, it may come down to one!

The Berghof – Hitler’s Private Residence

June 7, 1944

Col. Stauffenberg with his Adjutant Werner Karl von Haeften (Jamie Parker) was crucial here since they will be asking the Fuhrer to sign his death warrant (so to speak).

One very important scenario was Hitler’s signing the edited Valkyrie and mentions how it works, for it may be something that suggests preconceived actions taken against him or was it just coincidence…

Meeting with Colonel Albrecht Mertz von Quirnheim was next in phase, here they were able to discuss on how to assassinate Hitler in a meeting held at the Wolf’s lair.

Next was a very emotional scene; we could only feel how difficult it was for him to see his family go while he would never know if he will be able to see them again…

Phase 1 commencing from Ludwig Beck (Terence Stamp) addressing the coup member and what will follow in the next hours!

HEROES FALL

July 20, 1944

Fast forwarded to actual date of commencement. Gen. Olbricht sends a message for the reserve army to be on stand-by!

While Col. Stauffenberg and his 1st Lt. is leaving Berlin to deliver the bombs at Wolf’s Lair…

Back in Berlin, Major Otto Ernst Remer (Thomas Kretschmann) assembles the army and disbands them again stating that it was only a drill!

Very tense moments as things unravel; the bag was left under Hitler’s table and as the explosion went off and a seemed successful assassination, both officers hurriedly back to the airport to leave for Berlin and commence phase 2 which is Valkyrie!

Bendlerblock – 1 AM

July 21, 1944

The failed assassination summed up in the last hours of these men but even so, the fight will continue, one by one all conspirators were hunted down, arrested, judged and executed.

All conspirators were assassinated by a 10 man firing squad and after Gen. Olbricht and Col. Quirnheim fell, he was next in line! But in his Lieutenant ‘s act of loyalty, he took the bullets meant for his Colonel.

Brave men fall but their spirits stand tall as ever!

Unforgettable and heart pounding edge of your seat thriller! There are very few films that provide, exudes desperation and to find a way would be dire for all concerned even sacrificing their own lives just to see their country free from tyranny!

Continuity of what works signify effectiveness on how we provide these reviews, but in order for this to have its efficiency, it will be done not to entertain or just something to read, but to instill perseverance and hope to every individual.

Failures don’t plan to fail; they fail to plan.

-Harvey Mackay

All war represents a failure of diplomacy.

-Tony Benn

To understand better Col. Stauffenberg’s involvement and intention, he was born from Royalty and was raised through proper virtues and of Catholicism. I believe that his family, himself was born to safeguard the oppressed and fight the injustice of this mundane world!

Most of us don’t know how Hitler kicked his bucket and I still do mind for this is not of our Lord’s kingdom but instead of man. I’m not saying its futile for us and for those involved, but I know that people will always find a way to liberate, provide freedom time and again for those who are not welcome more so to those who are oppressed by the indignities of hatred!

I believe this is remarkable in its true sense as mentioned it was something that aligned the proclivities of communities, nations, culture around the world that these events in the past we must learn, we must understand or it will be the end of all humanity!

Unstoppable (2010)

What happens when an unstoppable force meets two courageous men?!?

20^th Century Fox in association with Scott Free Productions, Prospect Park, Millbrook Farm Productions and Dune Entertainment present…

In memory of Director Tony Scott.

Southern Pennsylvania…

The opening scene was filled with images of the Yards and trains combined with its eerie background sounds make it look like a horror story! So here we are prepping up the cast, setting in motion key specific characters that would give “life” to the locomotive and its trail of destruction!  This is what I appreciate with the Scott siblings, details are always inclined which is fundamental in the storytelling like locations and dates properly setting up the ambiance for the audience to grasp multi-angle scenarios.

The catalyst was inspired from real events that occurred in Ohio wherein a CSX 8888 Freight Train also known as the “Crazy Eights” incident back in 2001 from which 20^th Century Fox capitalized and as they initially tapped Martin Campbell but later left due to production and financial problems. But they found another more equipped Director for the job! This was the last film the Director Tony Scott (Top Gun) together with a remarkable Writer Mark Bomback (Die Hard 4.0) who made this a truly entertaining premise!

In the film, everyone has a phone call to take which was essentially redundant but needed to relay and inform people to take their jobs more seriously! A rookie who has family issues, a man who forgot his daughter’s birthday, a Yard Officer who calls the shots to get her subordinates to move their ass on the double! On a similar note, like most thrillers they implicate scenarios that need rhetorical questions coming out from the conversation in order to make it more surreal, the energy and the urgency which the dialogue implicates provides enough gut wrenching tension which makes it more ideal to watch!

In another front, the film raises issues about not just accidents happening in the transportation industry but rather to those who are employed to work in these SMEs’ or by huge corporations. While in contrast, instilling the need to have a secure job to help support their respective families it gives light to the implications of labor problems, redundancies and layoffs that affects the livelihood of millions of people across the country and the world.

Academy Award Winner Denzel Washington (Courage Under Fire) is veteran Railroad Engineer from AWVR (Allegheny and West Virginia Railroad) Frank Barnes bitter but gracious trying to keep his job and support his two daughters who are even trying to support their own education by waitressing.

The Director have so much faith in him that he already starred in 5 films making their partnership an unforgettable tandem for Hollywood and Studios to always make a way to capitalize! Nevertheless, who can even question the acting prowess of Mr. Washington himself?

Trains are set in a collision course which carries children, molten phenol, train cars for pick-up and a cargo load of guilt and incompetence coming from a couple of employees. Ethan Suplee (Open Range) as Dewee a Holster working with his “partner in crime” Gileece played by T.J. Miller (Cloverfield) they both made the story realize its ends through “what you reap is what you sow”!

Fast rising actor and soon to be CIA Agent Jack Ryan is Chris Pine (Just My Luck) he portrays a newly hired Will Colson coming in as a Conductor under the wing of Frank. He got his own problems to deal with further convoluting his role, having a mano-y-mano with a heavyweight like Denzel. His acting provides another set piece in his repertoire having seen that he can do comedy from previous projects while traversing into action and drama makes him a an ideal candidate for lead actor in the future!

What will a film be if there are no women to take a stand, some would be a damsel in distress, others will just be a plain squeeze for the hero, supporting roles are underrated but not with Rosario Dawson (Welcome to the Jungle) she is Fuller Station Yardmaster Connie Hooper is spot on for her role strong, determined and steadfast! She spearheads her staff to be on full alert finding the best solution to stop the runaway train from causing further damage, she even contests the decisions of the VP that allows her to become a significant model not just from her subordinates but with the populace as well.

Kevin Dunn (Transformers) as Fuller Operations VP Oscar Galvin, maybe he can ask the Autobots to help talk to their fellow comrade unless it’s a Decepticon that would make it weird! Can you blame the guy? He’s keeping his business and making sure it’s running smoothly (right) while he sits in a posh office on top of a high rise building while conversing with big shots playing golf, the people under his company is doing everything they can to save lives from an inevitable catastrophe!

I don’t mind if there was no in depth character development stating the obvious that the film comprises of very talented people but the main thing was, it focused on a far more “tangible” reason than the actual screenplay for example the lives of people, the experience of having a runaway train, the danger that it may bring to a densely populated town is all in the right position and it amalgamated into this fantastic thriller of a ride film!

Cinematography by Ben Seresin was absolute clear and clean every shot from the town and its landscapes to the rampaging train gives it levity for the viewers to encapsulate and experience! To add, Music was conveyed Harry Gregson-Williams that gives pulse pounding input to every set, dialogue and debris from the train that is running amok!

Like the actual train wreck, the film had financial overturns making Fox request the lead actor and Director to make some sacrifices in terms of their compensation and it still proved volatile for anyone to stop.  So the answer to my question upfront is…no need for capes here, a town is secured and thousands of lives are grateful to these heroes in the real world and so another story was told in the eyes and mind of one of the greats in cinema! With prayers and condolences to Director Anthony David Scott and to his family. May he rest in peace!

The Guardian (2006)

A story about heroism, sacrifice and knowing when to let go!

Touchstone Pictures in association with Beacon Pictures present…

Directed by Andrew Davis (The Fugitive) who also takes pride on getting the usual talents that he has worked with in his previous films, a very few notable names on his list were Steven Seagal and Tommy Lee Jones. After Hurricane Katrina which destroyed a greater part of New Orleans and left thousands without homes, the production team and the writers utilized key moments of courage and humanitarian efforts to instill in the film’s undertakings. Known for his thriller action oriented films, the Director on this occasion takes a dive with the men and women of the United States Coast Guard!

Legendary Rescue Swimmer Ben Randall played by Kevin Costner (No Way Out), in a not your typical work scenario film where you can find it a bit perplexing that your job description is to save lives and your office cubicle is the whole freaking ocean! Kevin has been around the movie industry long enough to call him a veteran, how he commands stage presence in delivering both acting and at the back of the camera is worth watching. On his part, he may have to deal with issues that make his duties as an Officer more complicated seeing the personal side of his experiences gets the better of him and it gets worse from there…

This trauma and a troubled marriage had brought more complications to his life. Ironic, he saves lives and yet he cannot save his own from his personal concerns. So, Coast Guard Captain William Hadley from the talent of the towering Clancy Brown (The Shawshank Redemption) offered two options is either walk out of here or take the desk job at A Point to school some new Coast Guards and to get back on his feet from all his emotional stress.

There were fishermen who were found floating already and seeing that one was presumed alive, Ben came to the rescue but without sacrifice, a tidal wave hurled a massive container and the helicopter comes crashing down pulling the lone survivor into his deathly grave! Nothing can shake the nerves of this hero of the high seas, until one tragic mission. Wanting to save his partner Carl, they were sent a lifeboat before extraction but was a little too late for his best friend and partner!

Enter hotshot and pain in the ass swimmer Jake Fischer who was portrayed by Ashton Kutcher (The Butterfly Effect) a show off, cocky but hilarious guy but you just want to shut up! He goes into training camp and trying to beat every single record that Ben accomplished. Bar fights, casual dating and tremendous work out from the veteran himself gave him some epiphany in his life. Though, there were few insights that Jake made him king of the hill, he never got point from wasting time. Soon all began to unravel when Ben understood what was bothering him and what tragic accident happened that left Jake wanting attention and some direction in his life.

Ben sees Jake as a potential not just in his class but for the rescue team his going to be assigned to, he can be the best of the best if he wanted to, he just need to understand how important his gift was and what reasons are left uncertain for his survival in the car accident with his friends. That goes without saying how Ben kept him on the team for obvious reasons of having that opportunity to be alive and so others may live!

The premise in general was more of a feel good film noting that it had had well talented actors that inspires to be better in spite of the danger in terms of people to be rescued and of their own lives as well. Production just needs to make sure all is secured especially when it comes to drop-offs from helicopters and for the situation of the water as well are all needed to be taken into consideration. They even made indoor pools just to compensate to make it real enough to be felt by the audience of what it’s like to work under these duress situations! On another aspect, Flash Film Works was hired just to recreate the 3D effects with the supervision of Mark Stasiuk while working in Fusion CI Studios.

The premise was like moments of desperation which comes and goes just like a McDonald meal served for the whole day! It was a story that inspires and shows people to never give up and make the best out of their lives no matter how bad the situation is! To the U.S. Coast Guard, truly the unsung heroes!

Argo (2012)

Ben Affleck provides another “convincingly” gripping and powerfully triumphant film in all aspects…well almost!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association Smokehouse Pictures and GK Films present…

Based on the memoir of an ex-CIA operative titled “Master of Disguise: My Secret Life in the CIA” published in 2000 and Joshuah Bearman’s Wired article “The Great Escape” which was released in 2007. The film Argo a.k.a. “Lord of Light” from Roger Zelazny’s 1976 novel who recently won Best Picture for the Academy Awards is a historical drama that depicts the story from the rescue of 6 US Diplomat hostages who were forcibly sheltered at the Canadian Embassy during the Tehran, Iran hostage crisis in 1979.

The man who “assisted” in carrying out the rescue mission was Antonio Joseph Mendez, a former CIA Operative who specialized in disguises and graphical work related to espionage. His talent gave him credit in the Technical Services Division and had tenure with the agency for 25 years. With his creativity and resourcefulness, he finally was able to provide a divisive plan to extradite the Americans from imminent danger with special thanks to the sci-fi film “Battle for the Planet of the Apes”.

Golden Globe and BAFTA Award Winner for Best Director Ben Affleck (Sum of All Fears) this guy has been hauling awards for the past few years! His diversity for juggling writing, directing and acting at the same time did much good for his career considering that his father had the same talent while working in Boston’s Theatre Company. His love for film making had earned him accolades left and right which even gave him bigger offers and projects to work with.

Ben managed to oversee the film’s intricate plot that makes it overwhelmingly intact but   “misinterpreted” in context. While creating a montage of news and media coverage’s key points taken place at the U.S. Embassy to the post hostage crisis reports. He was able to “at least” send a “semi-generalized” view in rapport to the public.

Another award winning quadruple threat George Clooney (Syriana) together with Grant Heslov (Catch Me If You Can) and the Director takes the lead in providing the finances needed to make this project come into fruition. While Best Screenplay was given to Chris Terrio (Damages) who even for the lack of experience helped paved the way for the script to take shape (not to mention its “obscurities”) as well for William Goldenberg’s “golden” efforts in editing 2 nominated films from the same year with a difference of a 3 month span in relation to their respective releases.

Together with some very talented supporting casts, Bryan Cranston (John Carter) as “forged” CIA Jack O’Donell and former co-star of Jennifer Garner (Ben’s wife) in “Alias” Victor Garber (External Affairs) who plays Canadian Ambassador to Iran Ken Taylor. To round it up, veteran Actors Alan Arkin (Escape from Sobihor) portrays fictional Producer Lester Siegel and John Goodman (Masked and Anonymous) is film make-up artist John Chambers. Now, actually 2 of these guys were not real, noting also how ironic for an organization to honor an award to someone who was not actually there seems farfetched and unfortunate!

Here’s the thing, in film making you need to device your own ingenuity and imagination in order for the story to be relayed to the audiences but more importantly when this is being based on true events, the facts should be straightened out plain and simple and at best convey this as closely as possible to what actually happened. This was the same scenario in Ridley’s Scott’s “Black Hawk Down” where a number of soldiers and scenarios were mashed up and sensationalized just to add levity to the intense framework of the story. Argo had the same scenario with too much publicity and criticisms that were thrown at the film and its producers stating the inaccuracies of how the story was told and also why were other countries such as UK, Switzerland and especially Canada were not given “enough credit” for their “initiative” and “crucial” contribution in the seeming cohesive caper. To add, there was no “crucial moments” considered in the imminent last minute escape more so in their actual departure from the airport.

Another aspect is that I have watched Kathryn Bigelow’s “Zero Dark Thirty” which was based on actual events as well. In terms of getting swept away by the plot and narratives, it was slowly paced until it reached the inevitable climax but still had the necessary input to make the experience surreal in the perspective of the Director and Screenplay. But what I am trying to connect with this story is that both were great in their own way, had real element settings the difference was Ben and his crew had more visually concurrent turmoil and hostility where it had this overwhelming presence of people on both ends of the floor: one group filled with so much anger needs to validate the wrong doings of their former Ruler, bring him to court and be hanged while they still have to resort in killing people in order to accomplish this! On the other end, individuals in the middle of a crossfire fearing for their lives with just the clear intention of getting out of this country alive would just be an understatement.

We don’t need to argue how things turn out and who won and who didn’t. Important thing is we have the understanding certain people gave their time, effort and risking their lives in order to save others. Yes, there were inconsistencies, some important representatives were taken aside and a country was misinterpreted for their actions but this will not stop in the harboring of hatred just to compensate for justice and that is the real sad part of this story.  In finality, with words coming from Mendez’s given lines: “This is the best bad idea we have, sir.” and in response, frankly we still give a damn!

Gangster Squad (2013)

Every man wears a badge and for these police officers and gangsters it’s all about just being knock-offs!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Lin Pictures, Village Roadshow Pictures and Langley Park Productions present…

Inspired from the book of Paul Lieberman with the title “Tales from the Gangster Squad”, the film tells a story of an undisclosed task force mobilized to seek out and destroy Los Angeles unwanted migrant and pathetic boxer turned notorious gangster Meyer Harris “Mickey” Cohen!

Director Ruben Fleischer (30 Minutes or Less) who debuted in “Zombieland” falls short in his action crime take on a very reputable unit that makes even “The Green Hornet” more watchable than this losers rampaging in the streets searching for their so-called elusive justice! That is why I’m glad DC Comics and Warner Bros. did not push through with the services of the Writer seeing that he is not the right person to pen their most anticipated “Justice League” film, Will Beall (Castle) does not have the right cut and experience to bring together the iconic team to millions of fans let alone in his take on a police squad who only creates public nuisance and chaos while doing their jobs to protect the public!

It had a “Tombstone” and “The Untouchables” premise written all over it as they got the guns, the courage, the charisma and the ability to be cool and that’s all about it! With a poor script and worse an A-list of talent pooled together in one bloody mess, Gangster Squad takes the underwhelming action of 1940’s criminal underworld into a whirlpool of petty one liners, cheesy plot and a whole lot of anger coming from trigger happy freaks on both ends!

Josh Brolin (Men in Black III) has so much potential to be great and could still continue to be part of award winning actors if he can just get a break from his projects. Since his outstanding performance in “True Grit” and “No Country for Old Men” he had numerous offers in which one fail to impress the movie going public and in the box-office which was none other than “Jonah Hex”. In the film, he plays Sgt. John O’ Mara, a veteran from WWII with plenty of accolades and medals due to his exemplary performance in the field; he was commissioned by Chief of Police Bill Parker portrayed briefly by Nick Nolte (Mulholland Falls) to finally deal with this “eastern crook”. Now a time for reconstruction and public responsibility has set in new heights seeing that people will take advantage of economic growth in their respective cities!

Still ambivalent who just needs some persuasion and an epiphany, Ryan Gosling (Drive) takes on the mob headstrong while trying to be as suave as possible with the women! He portrays sweet talking Sgt. Jerry Wooters another war hero who sees life as it comes around, not much to deter unless provoked!

Speaking of provocation, who would not want to be in the arms of this generation’s rising star Emma Stone (Easy A) she plays Cohen’s squeeze and ethics teacher who soon falls in love that guy with the “photoshopped” abs in reference with their last partnership from the hit movie “Crazy Stupid Love”. Their chemistry here was insufficiently withdrawn and conveniently added to just have a screen couple setting sights for attention and escapism!

While rounding off the roster of this radical unorthodox squad is Anthony Mackie (Notorious) playing knife thrower Coleman Harris; my personal favorite Giovanni Ribisi (Public Enemies) as Conwell Keeler the brains of the group (I believe they all should…);  and screen veteran Robert Patrick (Terminator 2: Judgment Day) as the sharp shooting gangster killer Max Kennard don’t let me bring Michael Peña (Observe and Report) into the picture, he’s got talent but seriously poor writing just stomped his character and acting, he is Navidad Ramirez who’s best line was “I got the drop on you didn’t I?”. (for crying out loud)

Here we are, the toast of the town Sean Penn (I am Sam) is the only one who made this film at least believable in respect to its adapted novel and context. Born in Brooklyn, New York he found his way to work with the top of the business like Bugsy Siegel, Lucky Luciano and Al Capone. Setting sights in Los Angeles, he muscled his way into lucrative gambling sites, restaurants and dined with Sunset Boulevard’s most beautiful women! Sean has been a remarkable actor since his earlier days, he would have been more tangible if someone played the pudgy gangster with the likes of mob films familiar face Joe Pesci but he was able to pull it together bringing the crime boss susceptibility with his temper more than make–up  the abysmal script. (well, not all since his actual make-up was not necessary in my own opinion).

They were like terrorists and arsonists who burns every possible hideout of gambling and racketeering Cohen has while beating his people like crap just to say that you are being given a familiar gesture to either get out of our city, stop your illegal business and go to jail! How does the justice system works here if this undercover cops does more harm in the community when actually they should perform like real police officers to apprehend their supposedly target and not destroy public property or put in harm’s way  any civilians in their operations!

In the complete running time, three fourth’s of the film was so ridiculously show boating with a fan service effect that may have been at best cut off since the last quarter was meant for the impeccable penultimate where the bad guy gets the hand cuffs (or not) while synchronizing it with a final stand-off shoot out to avenge dead colleagues, loved ones and protecting those who are left at the cross fire.  So it goes without saying: It’s funny, you can never truly compromise with the devil but the only good thing is though not all are angels, you can still find one or two in the city of Los Angeles!

Lawless (2012)

A genuinely distilled cast and performance but it still veers out of a straight line while working on their quick draw stand-off!

The Weinstein Company, Yucaipa Films, Revolt Films and FilmNation Entertainment in association with Benaroya Pictures, Red Wagon Entertainment and Annapurna Pictures present…

The film was based from the historical crime novel of Matt Bondurant titled “The Wettest County in the World” which was published on October 14, 2008. The story depicts the first hand experiences of the author’s grandfather (the youngest of the siblings) and his two great uncles set in Franklin, Virginia where it follows “The Great Franklin Moonshine Conspiracy” in which a series of events were taken into account from the brother’s ”survival of the fittest” bravura against gangs and cops alike!

Directed by John Hillcoat (The Road) gathers another set of Australian homeboys. John has not been able to seize lucrative projects as of to date but he’s getting there seeing that can he can come up with an all-star cast and make some noise about it (well probably they should make it a bit louder). While working with Nick Clave (The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford) for the second time since “The Proposition” while working also with Guy Pearce. They have both made this film very promising as it was given already positive expectations due to its

Set in the 1920’s to 1930’s era where every man starts to make a living for himself, where people find any means necessary to survive whether it is legal or not! “Me and my brothers are moonshiners, bootleggers…” exclaims in a narrative intro by Shia LeBeouf (Disturbia) as Jack Bondurant the youngest of the brood of trouble makers! He further adds that the hills from where they find solace and a place they call home has been a goldmine of sorts to the city below where gangsters like Al Capone and Tommy Malloy. Shia has transcended from his clichéd acting and mannerisms and can really be a force to be reckoned with. Together with his brother Howard Bondurant the middle sibling played by Jason Clarke (Public Enemies) who is starting to get in the business by being proposed on certified box-office hits. His role I believe has been down sized due to bigger stars in his left and right or maybe he was really the quiet type but will follow his brothers until the end!

Hard hitting rising star Tom Hardy (Bronson) as the eldest and seemingly “unbreakable” Forrest Bondurant he has this knack for playing roles in being a tough guy while letting his fists do more of the talking he still finds someone who can melt his heart and for instance this is the reason why Jessica Chastain (The Help) while playing a only supporting role still turn plenty of heads in her presence. Basically two of the women involved were just for eye candy with Mia Masikowska (Alice in Wonderland) who has the same type of mentality with Jessica, getting lucrative and smart films that entice the movie going public without hassling on second-rate performances and this one is nothing of the sort, speaking of which Dale DeHaan (Chronicle) is a certified glue that pieces it all together, I remember Paul Dano perform in “There Will Be Blood” and Matt Damon in “The Rainmaker” and this guy will also go the distance!

Intermittent scenes carried by Gary Oldman (The Professional) who plays trigger happy gangster “Mad Dog” Floyd Banner who seem to be in every bullet riddled blood baths (custom made in cars)! Although not much engaged in the dialogue, instead he lets his Tommy Machine gun do the talking with anyone who gets in his way! On the other hand, one of the most sought out actors for his commendable character performances (just like the guy upstairs), Guy Pearce (Traitor) is Special Deputy Charlie Rakes who responds to this susceptible community! It also goes without mention that with “the long arm of the law” with Rakes lives up to his name in raking profits from these low-life criminals,  underpinning most of their activities and cohorts, the police officer demands all to “share the love” under his undying commitment to “protect and serve”!

The film’s brutal propensity towards “taking care of business” sets a definite tone of territorial coping due to organized crime. Strong points were given to Tom and Dale who were actually the scene stealers here while Shia proves his ability to be an actor can actually be weeded out by giving him diverse roles and not just focus on his hyperactive persona when it comes to comedy.

What can we expect coming from The Weinstein Company, always setting the standard for quality produced films! But not all has its bright side, it was an applaudable attempt but only up to a certain extent seeing that an adapted screenplay that makes the most out of their resourced and origin material belittles actual events that happened. A typical gangster movie which underlies subtlety in terms of its context while having violent overtones that tries to make up for a pedestrian storytelling!

Shinjuku Incident (2009)

The film was remarkably made setting off issues in cultural diversity, turf wars and the enduring human spirit to survive this dog eat dog world!

Cine Asia in association with JCE Movies Limited present…

This is the film that brought me back to Asian Cinema! Directed by Derek Yee (Protégé) the story narrates a tractor mechanic and farmer named Steelhead provocatively portrayed by Jackie Chan (Rush Hour) from North Eastern China who longs for a better life! Set adrift on the shores of Japan, he took the chance to go to the place where his lost love named Xiu Xiu played by Xu Jinglei (The Warlords) was last heard off… but with a price! Taking part time crap jobs just to get by, he was able to start his life a day at a time only to find out that his love was involved with the Mafia…

A day came when he was on a run from the police; he was able to save a drowning Inspector Katano played by Naoto Takenaka (Sword of a Stranger) from a tunnel to which led frequent encounters. But life got worse when his brother Jie from another international rising star Daniel Wu (The Banquet) was beaten twice by the Japanese Mafia and the Taiwan Gang. He took to the streets all his anger and with his friends, they stood up against the oppression and discrimination they got everyday! Out of pity and determined to be a somebody, he took the life of a criminal with his so called friends and made money out of illegal means. From stealing goods, racket profiteering and gambling. I have to commend Daniel on this end, he has a wide range versatility in playing his character from being mild mannered, the resentful attention seeker and lastly to the egotistic angry man who became a pawn in this on-going conflict!

At one point he even overheard an assassination attempt of the leader of the Yakuza Eguchi depicted by Masaya Kato (The Crying Freeman) the husband of his lost lover only to save him from these people. Soon, he was tasked to kill people as well, specifically the leaders of the Mafia and got his part of the deal… to be a valid citizen and run his own business, all went well (so it seems)! Soon, they got establishments and were able to put up their own businesses; they even were able to control a large part of the district. Setting an example to his peers that this thing they have should be done now with honest intentions and forget their sinful ways of the past. This is what happens when anyone is at a point of being pushed into a wall, you either surrender to brutality and violence or defend yourself even if it costs your life more so, the loves of your loved ones!

But as time went on, all of his friends became greedy and someone really got worse… his brother Jie became uncontrollable and a heated argument came over before reaching its climactic end. All the Mafia’s members went to one of the Chinese’s establishments with bushido blades, while Steelhead together with Inspector Katano to sets things right with his friends. An argument ensues and all hell breaks loose! While running from the chaos Steelhead was ambushed as he runs for the train station to make a getaway only to be followed by the Inspector inside the tunnels where they first met, redeeming himself he was able to give the Officer a valuable thing just to put an end this civil war!

Dark, violent, less action and with more drama on the onset! Shinjuku Incident provides all of these pieces that makes the premise not only tell the story but to convey the message of people in poverty and the high ruling class of society!

This was surreal coming from events slated with issues about culture that comes with the territory! A very compelling and out of the blue performance by Jackie Chan and the cast, this film even boasts his acting prowess even not providing his usual martial arts repertoire and a scene that doesn’t even relate to the actor’s disposition in cinema making which gives me a wide eyed and jaws agape look throughout the film! People will see a film if it has good talent in it not just because of the story itself, this infuses elements that makes it work and worth to watch. The Director even waited for Jackie to be free in order to star in the film after a long period of time due to his busy schedule and it was worth it!

The Director mentioned that Jackie has been seen by his fans and audiences around the world hundreds of times over while showing his capacity to perform his own stunts, exceptional hand to hand combat fight scenes but most of all his comedic bantering and lines with co-performers is his forte. It’s time to take this to the next level and expose him to other genres like drama and it did not disappoint just as much I appreciate a great comedian in his own right Robin Williams who turned into a paranoid monster in the “One Hour Photo” or for Steve Martin to tackle the world of terrorism in the film “Traitor” in terms of being its Writer was absolute mind blowing!

To fall on depravity seeks better understanding on how life needs to be coursed through, it does not need to be compromised, it is how it works it will always be this way which is why human nature keeps on swinging in a balance just be careful not to tip off the scale or else there will be chaos!

 

The Rite (2011)

“I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with New Line Cinema and TriBeCa Productions present…

Based from the book of Journalist Matt Baglio titled “The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist” which was published on March 10, 2009. So what does exorcism mean? As discussed by the Author it comes from the Greek word exorkizo which means “to bind with an oath” or “to demand insistently” with this insight he was able to delve deeper into his research when he came across a class in Pontifical Regina Apostolorum University that teaches about exorcism. Here, he met Father Gary Thomas a Priest from California who was asked by his Bishop to travel to Rome and be able to study further this phenomenon in this modern age, to strengthen his faith and abandon his scepticism!

The scriptures states: qui sequitur me, non ambulat in tenebris, sed habebit lumen vitae! A man prepares a dead woman, cautious while doing his job as he was about to finish, he saw a tattoo of a devil and gave it an ambivalent look that suggest was it something to ponder on or just out of curiosity!

Directed by Swedish Mikael Håfström (Evil), he was able to tackle something that was genuinely thought provoking but most importantly it was something real and not being based simply by fantasy or fiction! Examining one’s faith, finding oneself, learning what is truly going on with the world and that demonic possession still does exist! The impact of delivering its significance of these manifestations, experiences of different people and for those who lived to tell the tale of their horrific encounters with the devil himself has given levity on Roman Catholicism and their continuous journey to spread the word of God and his works so that people will fulfill their salvation!

How ironic in which our faith brings us to a place where it crosses paths with fate leaving us with no compromise, understanding that we have been given the choice, the free will to exercise our beliefs and actions! Colin O’Donoghue (Identity) as Michael Kovak son of a mortician Rutger Hauer (Salem’s Lot) poratrays Istvan Kovak, deprived by love and losing his wife he now runs a Morgue business while Michael does the chores with resounding frustration! Four years later, he was ordained to enter priesthood which he resigned at an early stage, his Superior Toby Jones (Creation) Father Matthew sees him as someone with great potential and never gave up until he was able to convince his gifted student to enrol in an Exorcism class or go home paying his burdensome loan!

The film discusses the procedure of exorcism how it is brought about to be performed through the initiation of a designated Priest as he assesses the possessed and brings his evaluation to the Bishop who informs the Vatican and to request that this procedure can take its place. Michael seeks the truth and must find the answers to at least have that direction to where he is going.

He was sent by Father Xavier played by Ciaran Hinds (Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance) to meet Father Lucas Trevant a Welsh Jesuit from Academy Award Winner Anthony Hopkins (Hannibal) as he performs a series of exorcisms from a 16 year old pregnant woman and with a young boy, his focus in his character as usual was to die for considering his age, he can seamlessly deliver with passion and vigor! Although Ciaran and Toby are a few of my favorite actors they were just there to give Colin the motivation to get out from the darkness and step into the light!

Romulus and Remus, the twins from which the mythological foundation of Rome had originated, left to die by their Uncle Amulius, miraculously saved and suckled by a Lupa. Names are significant to the one bestowed as with titles as well, this is the same concept for the hierarchy of Angels and Demons, with an ascending manner for the former so goes also with the latter but in a descending pattern to distinguish them from one another. This is one vital point to which an exorcist can attack or weaken the entity, knowing them on a personal level grants the Priest access to their oppressor.

After their first session, feeling alone he wanders the streets like a lost soul in a strange place well at least there was some hope derived with his depravity and finds comfort in a McDonald’s Coffee, here he bumps into Angelina portrayed by Alice Braga (City of God) who seemed like a stalker since she keeps on looking at the skeptic student from their first class together. From here, she gives a bit more information of herself being a Journalist who needs to write an article and to uncover more information from Michael and his private apprenticeship with Father Lucas! Alice was forgettable here, a mere witness, not because of her acting but due to lack of screen time, there was no significance in her role until Michael read her work regarding what is really happening in Rome and around the world!

The story written by Michael Petroni (The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys) actually delivers more of the underlying presence of these practices by the Roman Catholic Church considering the speculations, the information readily available besides of course from the book that Matt Baglio had written. I did feel that the premise was not even incorporated to an actual horror or being grounded by fictionalized situations just to enhance the film but rather a testament to one’s beliefs by being able to absorb its message with less the theatrics, we can be able to understand better how good and evil battle for the souls of humanity, earning their salvation or be condemned to damnation!

There was also an angle with the partnership of the two remaining priests while the other saves his mentor so does it coincide with “ The Exorcist”, with Father Damien Karras losing also his faith was still able to help Father Lankester Merrin defeat the devil named Pazuzu after possessing a 12 year old girl named Regan. These subtle things that makes the story relatable can get you more enthusiastic or it might just the audience groan out of frustration give or take, it did not bother me at all since the performance of the two leading men were invigorating especially when Michael insults one of the Princes of Hell named Baal!

This was thoroughly engaging having someone without faith still battle the forces of evil and conquers it means something, it gives us hope, it give us the strength to move on and proclaim to these demonic creatures that we are capable to do the worst but it does not mean it ends there as long as we believe “we are not alone” as long as you have faith you will never be alone!

Keep the faith burning Father Michael…

The Conjuring (2013)

Like a magic trick that presents its parts, you have to witness the infestation, oppression and possession to get through this paranormal great!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with New Line Cinema, Safran Entertainment and Evergreen Media Group present…

Director James Wan (Insidious) brings into fold a story that is actually based on true accounts of a family being haunted in their Farmhouse in Harrisville, Rhode Island in 1971. James who recently teamed up with Patrick from his other horror film “Insidious” and “Insidious 2” were able to get back into the genre with utmost eagerness and palpability!

The Annabelle Case of 1968, a young group of friends sharing their experiences with undisclosed interviewers gives hindsight on what the film is all about. Paranormal Investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren is husband and wife is played by Patrick Wilson (Watchmen) and Vera Farmiga (The Departed), as they try to figure out what is going on with the apartment, is was told that a Raggedy Ann Doll was given to Donna, a Nurse as a present from her Mother that came to life one day. Asking for help, the doll introduced itself to be a spirit of a young girl that was found dead in the field where her original house was built, but that was only the tip of the ice berg…

Alright, this was just the introduction of what things are about to come! First, that doll used in the film was really creepy compared to the actual one already placed in the museum of the Warren’s secondly, the presentation of how they actually revisit these occurrences was outright disturbing! They really want to make sure that this film cannot only be viable due to its original content but how can these manifestations give more meaning to the actual lives of these people as parents of five daughters Ron Livingston (Relative Strangers) and Lili Taylor (Starting Out in the Evening) are Roger and Carolyn Perron who recently transfers to an old house, it was big with narrow hallways, plenty of rooms, a rotting basement and a gloomy backyard that will serve as the catalysts for their story to fully take shape (with white blankets included)!

Going back with the main Protagonists, Ed was being locked on by a very talented actor and singer! A World War 2 Veteran and a former Police Officer, his character depicts honesty and responsibility as earlier manifested with his conversation with a guest in his museum where all things that are placed in that room was either haunted, cursed or was used for voodoo magic! While his Wife Lorraine is a Clairvoyant, very supportive and loving that she made sure to fulfill her husband’s request by continuing their work in helping other people even when he passed away.

In so doing, James was so determined to make this film with emphasis on not just focusing on the run of the mill ghost stories but to work on actual people and events surrounding these phenomena!   I like the way how these film makers incorporate the dual concept of sets and their surrounding backgrounds! Like a dark unlit room, a misplaced lonely object, mirrors and their reflections add up camera work, sound effects and lighting what else can you ask for?

There was no need for special effects in order capture the imagination of the audience and by merely telling the story as it happens! Speaking of effects, the music was properly, seamlessly played to enhance these horrific undertakings, even from the start you will know that James and his crew mean business!

It was a fascinating story that relates to other films like “Dark Water”, “Haunting in Connecticut”, “The Ring” and still the best out there which is none other than “The Exorcist”! A recording of Carolyn Perron done by Ed Warren was being turn Producer Tony DeRosa-Grund in which he played it backwards and at the end they discussed that this should be made into a film. For fourteen years, they have not found any company to fund their undertakings until they met Peter Safran owner Safran Entertainment. Together with siblings Chad and Carey Hayes, they were able to refine the script and changed the point of view from the house owners to the “ghost hunters”!

Well, they have been termed or called by these names already even to the extent of “wackos” for that matter! But they need to emphasize that these things are real and trust me they don’t have “ Ecto Meters” nor “Proton Packs” to use to combat these diabolical demons back in those days! At least you can call them simply by their names Ed and Lorraine and pray that they will be there before it’s too late! Some people say that you don’t need to be afraid of these spirits but rather what other people can do to hurt you or your loved ones, but tell me something my friend what will you do when they come after you?

Have a pleasant night…

My Sassy Girl (2001)

“The 10 Rules: 1. Don’t ask her to be feminine 2. Don’t let her drink over three glasses 3. Drink coffee instead of Coke/Juice 4. If she hits you, act like it hurts. If it hurts, act like it doesn’t 5. On your 100th day together, give her a rose during her class 6. Make sure you learn fencing and squash 7. Be prepared to go to prison sometimes 8. If she says she’ll kill you, don’t take it lightly 9. If her feet hurt, exchange shoes with her 10. She likes to write. Encourage her.”

Cinema Service in association with MVP Venture Capital, Shin Cine Communications and IM Pictures present…

Directed and written by Kwak Jae-Yong (Watercolor Painting in a Rainy Day) with a background in physics he was still able to indoctrinate romance and comedy in his films and projects which I have tried watching for the last couple of years. His other beloved and notable works include “The Classic” and “Windstruck”.

There is a million to one chance of finding a drunk girl who wants to throw her life away and it is hard to believe for a boy who can still have an unexpected one sided (most of the time) and awkward on and off relationship. Moreover, the crazy part is he never gave up on her in spite of all the hardships! Basically what the word “sassy” means is being cheeky, bizarre and impertinent which are not the typical words you would like to describe for the love of your life. Seriously, we all have our different types when it comes to finding the girl of our dreams and be with for the rest of our lives but hey, what the heart wants the heart wants!

Korea’s star studded duo Cha Tae Hyun (The Girl and I) and Jun Ji-Hyun (Blood) leads the cast as the odd couple seeking to find meaning in their lives as they were entangled by fate and brought together by destiny! A remarkable heart-warming story that relates to every individual that have experienced life in all aspects and still be able to seek out the love that is truly patient, forgiving and enduring in each human being we encounter everyday!

1^st HALF: “When Gyeon-woo met The Girl”

Yes, the comfort of going home well I guess it would be preferable if you were coming from a tiring day of work or from school but instead, you see a stranger at the precipice of throwing herself in a subway and as a dutiful citizen you save her from impending death. Unfortunately, as gratitude she will thank you by calling you “Honey” and little do you know she would change your life forever!

No pain no gain they say…

We start the story of Gyeon Woo, a hopeless romantic college student who did not have luck with the ladies until someone catches up with him literally! He carries the young lady back to a motel and without any warning whatsoever he’s being accused of perversion which sends him to jail!

To add insult to injury, joining the slugfest were the nagging but caring parents primarily with the mother who rebukes his son with anything she holds for that specific moment which becomes either a projectile or a pile driver! Another premise injected by the Director to add flair with the already troubled student!

As Gyeon-woo goes through his everyday routine he would have never guessed that life will be more complicated as The Girl takes every single opportunity to make him suffer without compromise! Good part is, even though they transit on the same place and area they could still miss each other and at least have a breathing room for the next round to commence.

2^nd HALF: “Rainshower”

So love was finally in the air after countless dates, a “dodge a bullet” carnival birthday, playing a slapping game in a train, Racquet “face” Ball, sweet moments while walking and running in high heels and going back to jail! Nothing can compare the feeling of someone you love in your arms you simply just have to surrender!

The second half was focused on a better turn of events as both lovers find the time to enjoy each other’s company without any compromise except with the bullying and punishments which were a bit less brutal compared to her writing of stories which was forced fed to him that has out of this world and unconventional plots. But all good things must come to an end when Gyeon was finally introduced to her parents, they were not approved and though heartbroken they went on a journey to bury a time capsule which they will open after two years for she believes it was time to say goodbye…

OVERTIME: “The Ill Fated Lovers…”

Gyeon fell in love for this girl and never gave up on what they shared. As time passed, he eventually overcame his mediocrity in sports and practiced real hard while keeping himself busy, he wrote their love story and blogged it in the internet, he was offered by a publisher for it to become a book finally.

The script that was actually based on the protagonist’s life story was coming into fruition and seeing that he has never heard of her, he just made sure that he was able to give everything for her and make her happy. But you see, even if things were not meant to be then it would be easier to move on, it was just a matter of time to fully realize that when you let go of someone and if they come back…it was meant to be!

This is one of the most touching films I have watched outside the Hollywood, Indie Films and Blockbusters that came across the big screen. Full of endearing moments and you will not stop laughing with these lovers’ antics as they made their chemistry so naturally appealing for audiences to somewhat relate too, of course if they dig these types of films or if love has been part of their life then it can be easier to take the story into one’s system.

The music really sets the right mood by making it flow freely with the dialogue and scenarios especially with the comedic Cha Tae Hyun’s facial expressions and delivery of a battered boyfriend while Jun Ji-Hyun has always been a sight for sore eyes, a beauty plus exceptional talent that makes their on-screen love hate relationship seem validated.

Did I mention that this was based on a guy who fell in love with a girl? His name is Kim Ho-Sik while his wife (believe it!) is the one he courted for thirteen years though it was not definitely clear if this was really a true story of the two lovers. Finally, there is what we call the sweet surrender and after all the beat ups, slaps in the face, taunting, threats for his dear life The Girl and Gyeon-Woo comes back to this infinite circle…definitely love moves its mysterious ways!