My Best Friend (Mon Meilleur Ami)

Question: What values determine a friendship – a good friendship? Companionship? Loyalty? Someone who is there to listen or give advice? There are numerous ways to describe friendship but what about a close one, a best friend - the rarest of all kinds of relationships? I suppose we all have our measuring techniques for that but, for me, when someone does something for you, to support you because they know it will make you happy and without wanting anything in return, that type of friend I hold in the highest regard.

I delved back into a foreign film this week with My Best Friend. It was a French film that was released in 2006. Luckily the more foreign films I see the easier it is to stay in tune with the story even though I have to read. Remember I am a slow reader.  If I skipped this film just because of the subtitles, like used to in the past, I would have missed out on a wonderful story.

It’s rare to see closeness among males in film – at least ones that aren’t about getting drunk, finding a girlfriend or over coming some stupid mistake and their “buddies” have to help them out of it. I know men may have the cliché that they are tough and don’t need to talk about their feelings or about their relationships; but we all have friendships that matter and those stories should be told. Men do have very meaningful friendships. And that is what I found in My Best Friend.

If you are concerned this is an overly sappy film, don't be. It is not. After reading what I wrote initially I want to ensure I didn’t turn anyone off with my introduction and thinking it might be a drama. My Best Friend is quite funny and will keep you smiling throughout.

Francois, played by Daniel Auteuil, is a man totally obsessed with his work so much so that he neglects the people in his life and isn’t always the most honest businessman. He is also self-centered and quick with a response without a filter. He is oblivious to his shortcomings until his business partner challenges, at a dinner party, to introduce his best friend within a short period of time. Challenge accepted and from that point on I was slightly reminded of “A Christmas Carol”. No, there aren’t any ghosts who come dragging chains in the middle of the night, but the main character has a mirror, so to speak, put in front of his face to see how he really is to people and why he is alone.

The humor of the film happens when he meets a taxi driver and their connection evolves. That’s it. No more details. Just rent it. I found this on Netflix but had to order the DVD as it wasn’t on the Instant Play.

My favorite thing: Well, I did like Francois' occupation, an antiques-dealer. I used to work for an antiques-dealer back in the day.

My least favorite thing: That I don't know more French words. When I watch a Spanish film I can catch a lot of words that I understand to help me keep up better. 

Directed by Patrice Leconte, Fidelite Productions, IFC Films, 2006

Written by Patrice Leconte, Jerome Tonnerre, (story by Oliver Dazat)

Starring: Daniel Auteuil, Dany Boon, Julie Gayet.

Genre: Comedy

Rating: PG-13

Length: 90 minutes

Review: 8 out of 10

* Photo courtesy of IFC Films.

Griff the Invisible

Question: Do you ever feel invisible? You are standing there, existing in the world but no one seems to notice you or how special you are? I am positive a lot of you think this way but there is at least one person who gets you and when that happens – all is right in your world.

An Australian film I just watched on Netflix, Griff the Invisible, touched on this subject. The movie stars Ryan Kwanten also known as Jason Stackhouse from TrueBlood speaking in his native Australian accent and playing a very different type of character. Anyway, he plays Griff, an introverted, awkward fellow who sees the world differently but who also lives in the world where no one really sees the true him. Um, not sure if I am describing it right…. The whole point of the film is that we all have our own perspectives on things but there are those rare few that no one understands and they become obsolete or unnoticeable to most.

Bottom line, Griff thinks he is a superhero put here to protect the innocent which in turn makes him want to hide from others so no one figures out his secret (mission). Okay, that’s enough detail of the story. Let’s talk overall picture.

Well, Griff the Invisible started off intriguing and with me wanting to know more about each character, specifically Griff. Ryan Kwanten was quite adorable as the awkward, unassuming chap who just wanted to do good deeds. He pulled off the innocence and detachment from the real world in a very convincing way. It was a big departure from his role on True Blood – the overly cocky yet not so smart character.

Another element that stood out in Griff the Invisible was the cinematography/art direction. There were not a lot of special effects in this film but just enough to keep the story on the fantastical side. Also, the use of a certain shade of yellow was splattered throughout the film. It caught my eye as I enjoy color theory and know that yellow is an intense color to grab people’s attention which is the opposite of what Griff wanted. It made me curious especially when the love interest wore the other two primary colors. 

Besides Ryan Kawnten and the visuals of the film, I finished the film with an unsatisfactory energy even though the ending made me smile. It started about halfway through the film, the story dulled and I found myself not really interested in the characters as much as I was in the beginning of the film. However, it was worth the viewing.

Directed & written by Leon Ford, Green Park Pictures, 2010.

Starring: Ryan Kwanten, Maeve Dermody, and Marshall Napier.

Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance.

My favorite thing: One character (Melody) had some great lines in it. Some made me giggle.

My least favorite thing: That the story wasn’t well-rounded, I suppose.

Rating: PG-13

Length: 90 minutes

Review: 5 out of 10

Preview: Seven Psychopaths

Oh, I really hope this is good. It has huge potential by the preview. But as always a few too many jokes and lines are shown so watch as little as possible.

Seven Psychopaths. Starring Sam Rockwell, Colin Farrell, Christopher Walken, Woody Harrelson and Tom Waits.

Written and Directed by Martin McDonagh (In Bruges)

Release date: October 12, 2012

Preview: Sightseers

I really want to see this one. Sightseers. From executive producer Edgar Wright (Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz, Grindhouse) and directed by Ben Wheatley (Kill List).

My recommendation is to watch only a portion of the preview as I feel it showed too much but this is on my list to see.

Sightseers is listed as a comedy but definitely on the darker side.



Release date for UK - November, 2012. Not sure when it will be released in the US

Expats Post: Seeking a Friend For the End of the World

Hello movie fans:

I am just dropping by to let you know about my review of Seeking a Friend For the End of the World on Expats Post. The movie was out recently in theatres but didn't stay long. Not too long ago I even posted the preview on here. I rather enjoyed the film and you can find out why here :

Review: Seeking a Friend For the End of the World

Stars Steve Carell and Keira Knightley.

Thanks!






*Photo courtesy of Focus Features.

Preview: Seeking a Friend for the End of the World

I don't do this very often, but I had to share a preview of a film I just saw at the theatre: Seeking a Friend for the End of the World . Stars Steve Carrell Keira Knightley.

The story is unique, touching, funny and inspirational.


 My review will be out soon but don't miss this film.

Updated: My review

Men in Black 3

Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, Amblin Entertainment & Sony Pictures, 2012

Starring Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith, Emma Thompson, Jemaine Clement, Michael Stuhlbarg and Josh Brolin.

Genre: Action, Comedy, Sci-Fi

Question: Did you like the first Men in Black? I did. It was clever; something slightly original and I enjoyed the balance created by the two main characters played by Tommy Lee Jones and Will Smith. And along with all the special effects and cohesive story, I found MIB very entertaining.

Next question: Did you like the sequel to Men in Black, Men in Black II? I am afraid I did not and since it’s been a decade since I saw it I honestly can’t tell you why. However, my guess is the sequel probably just tried too hard and went over the top like so many sequels have a tendency to do.

So with all that said, I went into Men in Black 3 with sort of low expectations but since 10 years had passed since the last installment I hoped for the best. And I was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed this installment. In fact, I think they could end the series nicely and call it a job well done.

The main characters are back, Agent J, Will Smith, and Agent K, Tommy Lee Jones, but there are a few new characters, of course. Emma Thompson plays Agent O and I will keep who she is quiet but I did kind of liked why her character was put into the story. The other character that deserves a mention is Boris The Animal played by Jemaine Clement. I can’t talk about his character long because it freaks me out. He plays the villain and how he was evil and who he was still gives me the creepies. In fact, I’ve got goose bumps right now and just had a shiver. Part of his character annoyed me a bit but I will let it go because that is probably just a personal preference feeling.

Now there was one part of the film that I really enjoyed – the addition of Josh Brolin. He plays Agent K….yes, you read that right. He plays the younger version of the Tommy Lee Jones' character. I won’t say why this happened but Josh Brolin played the role brilliantly. In fact, it was because of him and the addition of his story-line is why I liked this movie. Even though this is a Sci-Fi film, adding in the younger version of Agent K allowed the story to go into further character development, which is what really makes a movie of good quality and interest.

Will Smith plays Agent J with his normal sarcastic wit and charm. Really, how can anyone not like Will Smith? Anyway, the writers of this trilogy did a fine job creating a likable character that you care about; and with how the story plays out this time you care about him even more. I can't say why but I will say that it brought a tear or two to my eyes. And I was not expecting that at all in Men in Black 3. Well done!

Of course I enjoyed Agent K's part in Men in Black 3. Both actors, Josh Brolin and Tommy Lee Jones, performed the quiet, reflective agent with enough finesse that you feel like you really want to know more about the man behind the badge. There is just something about the pensive, secret government agent that draws you in.

Okay, that's all I am going to say about this movie. Enjoy the third installment of Men in Black. It was entertaining. Oh wait, I forgot to mention the character, Griffin, played by Michael Stuhlbarg. He has some fantastic dialogue in this film that really made you think. Well done, again.

My favorite thing: Josh Brolin. He played the young Agent K so well it brought a smile to my face.

My least favorite thing: The villain, Boris The Animal. He just freaked me out which I think was his purpose.

Rating: PG-13

Length: 106 minutes

Review: 7 out of 10


Click on film poster below to order DVD or watch on Instant video:

Attack the Block

Directed (and written) by Joe Cornish, Studio Canal, 2011.

Starring: John Boyega, Jodie Whittaker,  Alex Esmail,  Luke Treadway, and Nick Frost.

Genre: Comedy, Horror, Sci-Fi.

Question: Have you ever walked down a dark street only run into a bunch of hoodlums and hope they aren't about to mug you? You think, "Why aren't they home, doing their homework, or playing video games?"

Hoodlums? Did I really just use that expression? Holy cow, I am getting old. Anyway, I will admit when I see a group of teenage boys hanging around on a corner, in a park or such, I automatically think they are up to no good. I don't base this on any experience of my own, but I think it's just inbred into us as we grow up - to think the younger generations are just going to make mistakes when in a pack.

With that all said, the boys in Attack the Block are hoodlums that do attack innocent people and make the mistakes you think they will, however, if all hell breaks look you will WANT to want them by yourside. Did I just lose you all? Sorry, my vagueness rises again. But it's a must to keep you all in the dark about the story on this one...and it's just what I do in my reviews, right?

Anyway, Attack the Block is a British film that I believe is destined to become a cult-classic. Why do I say that? Well, just look at the genre categories this movie falls under. It's a perfect recipe. And if my 12 year-old son was older, I know he would love this film, but I am not showing it to him for a few more years: lots of bad language, blood, violence and humor that will go over his head. (I know, I am such a mom.) However, I guarantee this will be on his list to see as soon as he catches a whiff of it. It was practically made for him (and his generation).

So, here's the gist of the tale: A group of British teenagers, living in South London, with nothing better to do hangout on their neighborhood block. They make a mistake and there's payback. Drugs, guns/swords and lots of bad language are strewn throughout the story. Aliens are involved. Okay, that's it, no more details. However, if you are parent of a teenage boy, you may never trust what your son tells you again when they call you to tell you what they are up to or why they are late if you see this film.

Except for Nick Frost, Simon Pegg's best bud, I didn't recognize any of the actors in Attack the Block, but they all did a fantastic job at taking this irreverent tale and making it completely believable. So, have fun watching this film; I surely did.

My favorite thing: The two youngest boys. They had me in the giggles.

My least favorite thing: That sometimes I couldn't understand all the British slang.

Rating: R
Length: 88 minutes

Review: 9 out of 10

Click on film post below to buy the DVD or watch on Instant View:

Preview: Killer Joe

There are a few things that intrigue me when I go looking for a movie to put on my list. Sometimes it's actors, sometimes it's the story and sometimes it's what others say about a film. Found one today that I think is going on my list. Killer Joe. It's not often I see a NC-17 rating and read the words disturbing and funny all in the same sentence. Then you add Thriller (my favorite genre). I am so in.

Now, I will admit I didn't watch the whole preview...it seemed to show a bit too much for my taste, which is very critical, as you know. But here you go. Due out this summer.

Stars Matthew McConaughey, Emile Hirsh, Thomas Hayden Church and Gina Gershon.


 Click on the film poster below to buy DVD or watch on Instant Video:
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Mirror Mirror

Question: Do you wonder why Hollywood seems to come out with different versions of the same story and around the same time? First, we have Mirror Mirror starring Julia Roberts as the evil Queen. Soon Snow White and the Huntsman will be released. That stars Kristen Stewart as Snow White and Chris Hemsworth as the Huntsman. And I just read, not too long ago, that another film about Snow White will be released next year. I was pretty content with the 1937 Disney version but Hollywood will be Hollywood.

Recently, I witnessed one of the newer versions: Mirror Mirror. And except for some fantastical costumes and set design I was rather bored with the film. In fact, I couldn't wait for it to end but my children were enjoying it and that made me happy.

Both my kids gave the movie "a thumbs up" but I can't say the I enjoyed the film. Julia Roberts did play a wonderfully crazy evil Queen. Her performance was tolerable but everyone else's seemed to fall flat. The actress, who played Snow White, Lily Collins, might have been my least favorite portrayal. I can't quite put my finger on as to why but she was just bland. Not something I am accustom to when thinking of Snow White - pure, beautiful, charismatic all usually come to mind. But Tarsem Singh's version of Snow White just left me numb.

Also, there were a lot of changes, ones I won't say, just in case you are still going to see the film. However, for me, when something is a classic I just prefer the details to remain the same. There is nothing wrong with attempting to update or show a tale from a different perspective; but, for me, Mirror Mirror just missed the mark.

I really don't like to bash films so this review will remain short because I just didn't care for this movie. On the flip-side, it appeared a lot of people in the theatre enjoyed the film, but I just didn't get it. Maybe I missed something but it did make me look forward to seeing Snow White and the Huntsman. I am curious to see that version and what those filmmakers did with the tale.

My favorite thing: I will admit the costumes were wonderful, especially the Queen's outfits. The designer must have had so much fun with this project.

My least favorite thing: Ummm, which part to choose from? Perhaps the song and dance.

Directed by Tarsem Singh, Citizen Snow Film Productions, 2012.

Starring: Julia Roberts, Lily Collins, Armie Hammer, Nathan Lane and Mare Winningham. 

Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Drama.

Rating: PG
Length: 106 minutes

Review: 3 out of 10


Click on film posters below to purchase DVD or VOD:
 

Preview: The Fantastic Fear of Everything

As many of you know I have a few favorite actors/actresses and whenever there is a new movie coming out that they are in I have to share it. Recently I watched the preview for a new film starring the adorable Simon Pegg. Yep, he's one of my all-time favorites. However, after seeing the trailer for his new movie I think he may add more fans to his already growing list. I am not the only one who adores him - trust me.

The trailer is pretty good at not showing too much and this film looks really different. Odd, in fact. I think I read this is a comedy/horror - not a task easily pulled off but I have complete faith in Mr. Pegg's ability to give an outstanding performance. Enjoy!

The Fantastic Fear of Everything - due out this summer in the UK not sure of the American release.

21 Jump Street

Directed by Phil Lord & Chris Miller, Columbia Pictures, 2012.

Starring: Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Ice Cube, Brie Larson, Dave Franco and Rob Riggle.

Genre: Action, Comedy.

Question: Did you think I would review this film? Well, I did not. In fact, I flat out said I was NOT going to review it, but I couldn't keep ignoring all the chatter about how 21 Jump Street was surprisingly good. And now I am slightly embarrassed to admit that I need to stop presuming the worst when I see a preview. Yeah, I said that.

To be completely honest, when I saw the trailer for 21Jump Street, and I saw it several times because I didn't think I would end up seeing the movie, I immediately thought, "That's not how the TV show was. It wasn't a comedy, goof-ball, buddy genre. Pass." Yes, I watched the original show and really enjoyed it. It was on while I was in high school so I was smack dab in the middle of the perfect demographic. Plus, I thought Johnny Depp was a fox (and still do)! So with that confession out the way, seeing Channing Tatum (who ain't too shabby) and Jonah Hill as an odd couple lead characters I was turned off. But I saw it anyway. Well, I must say the pairing worked and made the film a decent one. 

First, let me say that both actors have slowly become more appealing with their recent projects and as I view them in films. Jonah Hill was fantastic in Moneyball and Channing Tatum was down-right adorable in The Vow. I have become fans of theirs now and you know what happens then? All bets are off and I will probably see most, if not all, of their film from now on. (Yes, I have seen some of their other work).

Second, although the script is vastly different than the TV show the writers took an approach to tell the high school undercover cop tale that I wasn't expecting. What was it? Well, I am NOT going to tell you except to give you a hint and say: opposite. That's it. It’s my only clue. It was brilliant and why I think another reason 21 Jump Street worked.

Finally, back to the actors, Tatum and Hill. I mentioned that the pairing of the two completely different personas matched up well. As they say, opposites attract and it's true here. Jonah Hill plays the nerdy, over-achiever, low self-esteem-just-wanting-to-be-liked-and-fit-in character. And Channing Tatum, charmingly, pulls off the overly confident, not-so-bright, athletic character. They knew of each other in high school and then meet again at the police academy later in life and end up as partners. The balance of what the other lacked or needed was artfully, albeit somewhat juvenile and moronically portrayed at times, calibrated.

Would people of my parents' generations like this film? Probably not. It wasn't made for them in mind. It was made for today’s youth and the nostalgia-seeking generation that I am currently in. Just to let you all know - this paragraph is laced with hints - hints on what? Well, I am not gonna say but read it carefully as I never leave hints like this - ever!

My favorite thing: Well, if I told you it might ruin something for those who will see it.

My least favorite thing: That during one scene I was laughing so hard and trying not to throw up all at the same time.

Rating: R

Length: 109 minutes

Review: 6 out of 10

For my review on Moneyball or The Vow - click on the movie titles.

21 Jump Street (+ UltraViolet Digital Copy) - Instant, DVD, Buy

This Means War

Directed by McG, 20th Century Fox, 2012.

Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine, Tom Hardy, Angela Bassett, Rosemary Harris,Til Schweiger, Abigail Spencer and Chelsea Handler.

Genre: Action, Comedy, Romance.

Question: How would feel if a handsome British man, with a sultry accent, asked you out for a first date and wanted to meet you an Irish pub; AND then later that day you had an equally hot American man, with the sexiest blue eyes, hit on you in a DVD store while you were searching for a movie to rent? Well, I would think I had died and gone to heaven - TWICE!!

I believe This Means War was made for ME! I mean, seriously, there are two hot guys with qualities that get me weak in the knees and then you mix in romance, humor and action; I am so there. However, I glanced at some of the reviews of this movie (which ripped the movie apart) and it sort of turned me off. Also, I had a feeling the preview showed WAY TOO MUCH. Well, I was right about the preview. Nearly every funny line Chelsea Handler's character had been already shown in the trailer; but I was wrong in thinking this was going to be a bad movie. Was it a great film? No, however, it was a fun movie that was worth the watch.

The part that surprised me the most and why I enjoyed This Means War was due to one of the actors and their performance. No, I am not going to say Chris Pine, even though I am a fan of his, but Tom Hardy. I only recall seeing him in one other movie, Inception, which he was decent in but he didn't stand out to me. Now in this movie he was front and center and it made me want to see more of him. He plays a CIA agent named Tuck; a charmer with a heart of gold and in some of the scenes he was quite sexy in such an endearing way. I simply wasn't expecting that. He was why I liked this movie. His responses and reactions were just precious. And the movie was still pretty funny despite the trailer showing too many of the jokes.

There were only four to five people in the theatre when I saw This Means War but each of us laughed out loud several times. The comedic chemistry between the two men worked and it worked well. Chris Pine and Tom Hardy looked like they had a blast with their characters and it showed on-screen. Their relationship is what also made this movie enjoyable.

Now on the flip-side, the women were the disappointment in this movie. First, I will admit I am not a fan of Chelsea Handler, and I just don't see her appeal or get her sense of humor so I was a little biased on that casting choice. Second, Reese Witherspoon's and Chelsea Handler's characters were apparently best friends but there wasn't any real chemistry between them. Finally, the character Reese Witherspoon played was just kind of boring that I ended up not really caring all that much about her or her dilemma.

Another part that didn't work for me for this film had to be the editing or the overall care the film-makers took on the movie. It seemed rushed or an amateur attempt at telling a story. There were some good parts but something just seemed missing as a whole package.

So with all that said, the men made This Means War worth it for me. Perhaps a male reviewer might have a different interpretation. But, honestly, their characters were just more developed and better acted. (Okay, okay, they were both not hard to look at for two hours. Fine, I will admit it!)

My favorite thing: Tom Hardy was a delight.

My least favorite thing: The editing and Chelsea Handler - although when she wasn't going for a laugh she was pretty good.

Rating: R
Length: 97 minutes

Review: 5 out of 10

Click on film poster below for DVD or VOD: