The Last Station

MUST-SEE: (Michael Hoffman) What a surprise this film is! If you're a loyal reader, you know period pieces are my passion. But I assure you, that bias plays no part in my love of this story. My only regret is I failed to read the book first. The Last Station is the tale of Leo Tolstoy and his family and following at the end of his life. Amidst the Tolstoyian Movement, it was an era of love relating all people, religions and beliefs. It was about ridding your spirit (and life) of excess, going back to the basics and living happily without material distraction or influence. It preaches numerous things, but the success of this piece is that it humbles itself. To the very end, its unclear what parts of his doctrine Tolstoy himself actually takes literally.... in the end suggesting that the way the greater population understood them was in fact, incorrect. As a man of simplicity, but filled with love, he acted, thought and persevered with only that as motivation. And, it was contagious. Modest and warm, he earned a friend with each meeting. Christopher Plummer translates this warmth easily. And don't expect to watch this movie without a smile. The chemistry between him and Helen Mirren is electric, believable. Second to that, James McAvoy and Kerry Condon are an instant romance - innocent and undeniable, their relationship the future of what Leo meant his Tolstoyian love to teach. Love story lovers, period piece fanatics and literary minds--don't miss this one!

The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus

WORTH-IT: (Terry Gilliam) For anyone who doesn't know, Gilliam's twisted, fantastical, devilish Imaginarium was the late Heath Ledger's last acting gig. He passed before filming was complete, leaving Gilliam with his tall tale unfinished--and no lead. He and co-writer Charles McKeown sat back down to re-work round 2, bringing in Johnny Depp, Jude Law and Colin Farrell to split Ledger's character. Although hard to imagine how one could simply substitute faces and expect it to work was questionable in my mind, but the duo did it, and flawlessly no less. Depp's appearance even gave me goosebumps (yes, this might be a little based in bias)- he does a fantastic job and leaves shoes too big for either of the other Ledgers to fill. And though I won't spoil how he does it, their creativity amazed me. No one would know an actor died halfway through the story.

To give you a little background, the imaginarium is a magical world completely fabricated from literally, your wildest dreams. One simply steps through the mirror and basks in every one of their fantasies come true. Its a journey of rediscovery and liberation, helping save souls and clean up bad eggs. Yes, the lines are fuzzy and not a lot makes sense, but we've come to expect that with Mr. Gilliam, haven't we? So, we're going with it.

The selling point for this film is the candy land carnival brought to life on screen. Bright colors, cartoon people and chocolate rivers making it a big top of entertainment wrapped up in two hours. The nonsense matters little, really... at least not to the general public. In my opinion, it doesn't have to. Life is nonsense often, dreams certainly don't make sense, and ultimately it's the what-ifs and the fantasies that make the journey so interesting. See this film to laugh out loud and exercise your imagination, while challenging your youth and spirit. We will surely miss Heath Ledger, as this script added to a short set of films just beginning to explore the depth of talent the young man had.

Invictus

WORTH-IT: (Clint Eastwood) There were several movies out early this year that were not at the top of my list. I know that may be hard to believe for some of you who know me well, and know that I am usually "dying to see" every movie that comes out (and usually think they're all fabulous!). But, maybe I am maturing, or my film-buds are, or I don't know what, but this year came a slew of films unable to draw a sense of anticipation from me. Invictus was very high on that list. First, because I am not a huge Matt Damon fan... great movies - he just doesn't do it for me. Secondly, I know nothing of rugby. The only reason I was slightly curious was my love for movies illustrating history. Invictus is the story of Neslon Mandela's first year in office. And, rather than recount the story of his rise to power, it tells the story of his rise to popularity and colors in the lines of why so many respect him. The story does this through a country's passion for its national pastime--rugby.

Now, its no phenomenal film. I didn't leave with any lasting impacts, and I wouldn't have been disappointed if no one had been nominated for an award. But, what I can say, is that I was immediately surprised at how much I enjoyed it. It was fast-paced, easy to follow and as genuine as a story that's already based on truth can get. Damon and Morgan Freeman were instantly believable. The complex story was simple and easy to grasp. The mix of high energy sport with politics and relationships made it easily entertaining and absolutely fun to watch. By the end, I regretted my original intent to avoid seeing the film and was lobbying for increased attendance.

I've heard the argument that the intensity of rugby was lacking, or that the movie overall was too vanilla, and I can't offer any hard evidence against those statements. I don't know rugby from dominoes, other than it is brutal and fast, so I don't feel like I missed anything. I was also ignorant to a lot of the South African political movement under Mandela, making this film simply an easy to learn history lesson. Watch it with that simplistic expectation and I believe it can do the same for you as it did for me--entertain and educate.

NINE

ALMOST: (Rob Marshall) Daniel Day-Lewis, Marion Cotillard, Penelope Cruz, Judi Dench, Nicole Kidman, Fergie, Kate Hudson, Sophia Loren... just a handful of reasons not to ignore this musical. Unfortunately, I can't say much for it's credibility as a great movie, because it lacks the fluidity to be an impacting story. But, the performances are good enough to enjoy it simply as a musical mosaic and not worry with whether or not the story actually makes sense. That last part may be unfair - I do understand that its the story of a famous Italian director (Day-Lewis) who has fallen victim to the film making industry. He gave his all to his work and his leading women, (ignoring what his mother taught him) and left nothing for himself or his wife... in the end losing everything. Simple enough. But, I stress, this motif falls flat. It's not at all about "Guido's" struggle to make a film. For me, it was the tremendous effort on the part of this film's stars that made it something worth seeing. Kate Hudson (looking more and more like Goldie) is unlike you've ever seen her before. She rocks. And she sings, dances, seduces... Fergie does what she does best. She is the sexy, elusive man-eater, singing and dancing in what is my personal favorite scene ("Be Italian"). Penelope (what made her earn the only nomination?) strips down and spreads her legs rolling around in the curtains. She's slammin' (and from what I hear, now bruised) in this role, adding another hold-your-breath scene to the flick. Cotillard is most-memorable, showing us fire and ice in her acting repertoire--first as the innocent and overlooked wife, and second as the star her husband never let her become (a passionate striptease with high notes). Dench surprises us with a powerful voice and vamp personality. And, Kidman makes a short, but glamorous appearance as the industry's "it" gal. I'm starting to ramble, so I hope you're getting the picture. I was overly impressed with the abilities of these ladies, especially in a cinematic era almost completely depressed of raw, theatre talent (No, Jennifer Hudson - I haven't forgotten you!). They're phenomenal--memorable and deserving of ample recognition. Bravo to the composer and choreographer. The song and dance truly is magic on screen.

82 Years of Oscars...

It's hard to describe the feelings I have after watching this year's Academy Awards show... I had high expectations (that, by reputation of the show, are rarely met) from the dynamic duo Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin, or the new increased Best Picture category, and as always, I had seen a good chunk of the nominees this year, so I couldn't help but have my (strong) opinion on who should take home the gold. Steve and Alec did pull out some good lines here and there, and the pre-recorded clips had me laughing out loud. The wins were deserved, speeches were honest and humble (unless you design costumes and you "already have two" of them, or Mo'Nique's bitter stab at past winners), and some new names were added to history. The bottom line is that The Oscars are ridiculously bland, too long and extremely predictable.

Despite that, I still love them and am still obsessed, so although I won't go category by category, here's a quick recap of my feelings. Look for individual reviews in the next few days!

I love that Up won several awards. For such a happy and hopeful film, it really broke the animation boundaries, earning itself recognition outside of the drawing room. The Cove was a surprise win to me - as it was the only documentary nominated that I actually saw. I loved it, though. It moved me and was riveting to watch. Jeff Bridges is a gem - his speech made me smile, and he was certainly the best choice from that group. Mo'Nique's speech on the other hand started off spiteful towards the Academy - or was it to the past winners? Hard to say. Christoph Waltz was a shoo-in... I could watch his performance over and over. I still encourage those who love Quentin or who can handle a little violence to see Inglorious Basterds. Sandra Bullock's win was a HUGE moment. I admit, I voted for Meryl's Julia portrayal, but secretly starred Sandra. Her performance was unexpected and left me with my foot in my mouth over the shrugs I gave The Blind Side before seeing it.

On the technical side of things, I was surprised to see Avatar lose out. As I've said in my review, it's made history in film. James Cameron literally invented stuff to make this movie, which in my opinion, gives it the technicality clause to win all of these categories. With Hurt Locker winning out in the sound sections, I justified that sound wasn't actually something new in Avatar... and that surely all else would fall into place. It did, shortly, with Avatar winning for everything visual, but the surprises came when HL won out for Directing and Best Picture. Don't get me wrong - I absolutely loved The Hurt Locker. You'll read my thoughts and feelings once I can get a review out, but in short defense, I just don't see how you can ignore Cameron's genius for the sake of a good film. No matter what, in my opinion, Avatar (this millenium's Wizard of Oz) should take the cake.

On a non-film note (because, I'll admit, I love the fashion part almost as much as the awards part), Maggie G was rockin'. Sarah JP had on a potato sack and a head full of cinnamon rolls. Can we even begin to ignore the obvious "boob-cakes" on Charlize's dress? And how did Elizabeth Banks' dress keep changing colors? Cameron Diaz NEVER looks good, even here, when she decided to try the 90s on for style and sport a wasit-line meant for someone under 5'5". Demi Moore really is getting younger. And why is George Clooney growing a mullet?

So, what were your thoughts? Who did you celebrate with? Were you disappointed over anything? Looking forward to hearing it!

A Single Man

WORTH-IT: (Tom Ford) Based on the novel by Christopher Isherwood, A Single Man is the story of (shocker) a single man, mourning the loss of his 16-year partner. All alone now, living in the L.A. suburbs, the professor of English, George Falconer, finds waking up every morning unbearable, and on a particular morning, sets out to make it his last. The film illustrates those plans, him putting things in order and leaving behind a lonely world with little to clean up. Unfortunately, as he checks off his list, an unexpected magnitude finds itself attached to several things he had originally thought easy to leave forgotten. It surprises him by proving his intentions wrong, and we see a conflicted man start to find happiness again. Colin Firth plays the troubled Falconer--poised and polished, yet humbled by sadness but dressed to kill--a true reflection of screenwriter/director/producer Tom Ford. In fact, the film's success lies within that style. No character goes unnoticed via their wardrobe. Even with the muted color palette to mimic old film, the textures and the tailoring stand out, speaking to the trendy reputation Mr. Ford maintains. If you've read the story, don't expect everything to mirror Isherwood's original story, but be reassured that his motifs carry on, making this film one of melancholy hopefulness - a subtle tragedy of heart and mind amidst a greater realization of existence. It struggles initially, yet succumbs to fate almost simultaneously, inspiring freewill and spontaneity (in the name of style).

The Oscar Race is On

It's my favorite time of year again... when going to the movies is not a hobby or an interest, but an actual priority, and part of the ultimate challenge - to see as many as possible before the awards are passed out. In my own opinion, I think its a pretty cool feat to say you've seen everything. It makes me feel important in the film world. But there is something else to be said to feel like your opinion is justified come Oscar-time... Something to be said for knowing just why Penelope is always nominated, or why period pieces most often win for costumes. I feel like a part of the Academy, in the know, and attached, in some way, to the overall results. I certainly don't always predict the winners (and this of course would be because the wrong ones won!) and I have yet to see most any of the short films (and rarely all of the foreigns), but I still press on, jumping into a theatre as often as I can, rearranging my Netflix queue so that what is no longer in theatres will come to my mailbox, clearing my schedule and yes, determining priorities.

So far I have done well in preparing for this time of year. I've seen Up, Up in the Air, Avatar, and some of the other big nominees. I even got lucky and already saw A Single Man (review to come) and Nine (also a review to come!). Hope you're all ready to follow me on my 4-week journey through Hollywood. I look forward to hearing your opinions on the nominees! What have you seen? What do you hope to see carry home a statue on March 7th?

I'll admit up front that I am cheering for Avatar, but also Nine and Up in the Air. As I see more, I'll keep you posted!

The Young Victoria

WORTH-IT: (Jean-Marc Vallee) From the perspective of someone who swoons over a good period peice, The Young Victoria is a story very worth seeing. Although incomparable to Elizabeth: The Golden Age, and lacking the instensity of Pride & Prejudice, it nonetheless impresses. Beginning with a chronological log of Victoria, circa age 5. She is a young girl, destined for royalty but hidden from soceity out of parental selfishness for the crown, and fear for safety amongst countless other selfish names. Faced with countless hurdles to claim her place, Victoria must learn the trade before entrusting others to guide her--a feat easily assumed, but much less ensued. Emily Blunt plays the vibrant, determined young princess (and queen) adept in Victoria's essence of youthful enthusiasm and rock solid pride. Not often do we get to see Blunt take her characters to a place like she does here. Its a pleasant journey and entertaining to watch. Director Vallee sets the stage for a subtle, yet undeniable chemistry between Blunt and Rupert Friend. Friend plays the young Prince Albert, sent to win Victoria's heart for the reputation of his territory, but inevitably finds his own heart swept away. His gentle and timid spirit proved turnkey to the film's attractiveness. Friend and Blunt crept into a romance packed with emotion, passion and sophistication so seamlessly, that by the end, you have only just realized your own heartstrings were along for the ride. The film, only dusting on the political side of Victoria's stressed first years, is at bottom-line, a romance. Its a story of dedication and loyalty highlighted with the strength of love and trust. Don't expect a heavy helping of history, other than the subtitled summations and breathtaking cinematography, but don't mistake take for encouragement to disregard the film. No, here Blunt surely proves herself as a layered actress, making The Young Victoria most definitely worth it, and an audience, if I don't speak for myself, anxious for more.

Up in the Air

WORTH-IT: (Jason Reitman) Do you ever get so deep into a routine that you forget what life is like outside of it? Ryan Bingham (George Clooney) is a top account executive at company who fires other company's employees for a living. Specializing in severance packages and "the after," he lives between airplane seats and hotel beds, laying off hundreds a week and never looking back. He's got the packing down, all the good member cards and his closest friends are employees of American Air. He's got it all, getting the best upgrades wherever he goes, steak dinners a la his company, and no baggage to come home to. In a sense, he is free... living life in the clouds, up in the air. When a Cornell honor student joins his team with new ideas threatening to keep him grounded, he is forced to see what his life has become while he's had in head in the clouds. The story is that of his re-evaluation, and while I won't spoil any of the journey for you, potential viewers, I can say that watching his rediscovery is fascinating. Clooney captures the innocence, ignorance and arrogance that Bingham has rolled into his character. He wears emotion on his face, in his body language and drenches his voice with a punch of those same feelings, making whatever story portrayed on-screen one not to ignore. The story here is funny. It's witty and sharp, laughing right back at you when you immediately wonder if the same joke is on you. Its dark and disheartening, but in a self-revelation sort of way. Its heavy on family, but dabbles in immorality... matching Bingham's inward conflict to that of life, in general. Its deep and thought-provoking. Overall, quick and painless entertainment, leaving you with slight discontentment, but inevitable encouragement to take the high road. Clooney does the job, and with newcomer Anna Kendrick as Cornell's brightest to shake up routine, and veteran (and growing personal favorite) Vera Farmiga as the mature, travel-high new companion, its a treat on-screen, for your eyes and your heart... and yes, in the end, your spirit. Up in the Air proves that at the lowest of lows we have what it takes to move on, we have what it takes to choose a different path, or recognize our current path for what it may actually offer. Surely Clooney will get the nod here, so do yourself a favor and see this flick.

Avatar

PHENOMENAL: (James Cameron) Everyone should see this film. Everyone. Aside from the fact that it is an epic tree-hugging love story comparable to Ferngully on steroids (thanks for that Reed), this film is a landmark in American cinema. In 1939, The Wizard of Oz was the first movie to hit theatres in color. Well, if you'd been around then (or maybe you were) to say you saw it, wouldn't you choose to have had that hand in history? So, for that monumental reason, everyone should see this film. With that out of the way, potential audiences, rest easy... This movie is phenomenal. And not just by Film Reviews by Jenni standards... Avatar is bonafide adjective worthy of my favorite vocabulary word. Writer/Director/(Genius) James Cameron introduces us to a futuristic U.S. colony hovering over a newly discovered planet of energy-rich flora and fauna that would improve life on Earth. The problem is that the inhabitants are hostile and the U.S. military are impatient. A small group of scientists aboard the Earth ship are out to befriend the people of this new planet, despite the orders of the military. By creating avatars of themselves, they can approach the people on the new planet (giant, blue-skinned, agile creatures), learning and interacting firsthand. Longstory short, the military arm of Earth's colony doesn't care about relationships or this planet's eco-system, out only for the natural resources and preparing for war if it doesn't happen soon. Are you seeing Ferngully? From here, its 3 hours of beautiful colors, textures, sounds and emotions all working together for the utmost cinematic experience thanks to the masterful hands of Cameron's crew. The fact that this film is in 3D makes your forget the movie theatre chair, never once acknowledging that its in 3D... (No roller coaster rides or flying objects). You're pretty much just inside the screen. So much so, that once the film is over, you almost believe in the blue people, or if not that severe, its like waking up from dream and shaking yourself back into what you know should be reality. The film is clever. Its emotional and fast-paced. No storyline is sacrificed for special effects and the acting shines, despite animation. I can't say enough about Avatar. Its the most mesmerizing piece of creativity I've seen on a movie screen, ever. Don't miss out.