Catch and Release (2007)

Okay, most of the time a film tries to be part comedy, part drama and part buddy picture, what it ends up being is a total wreck! Catch and Release beats the odds by being all the above while avoiding total wreck status. It's that rarest of things, a film that reveals you don't have to be married or be blood to grieve for somone you love and how many emotions grieving can reveal... including humor.

There is that chick-flick quality that will have guys begging off, but fortunately for me Kevin Smith acting in a film he didn't direct was enough to convince me to go. The man can actually act, and not just in his own films. Unlike other films where a nonactor tries to step up, Kevin Smith was not a blank space on the screen. He held his own and then some. There's even a certain degree of self parody of his profound-statement-delivering Silent Bob charater.

Moving on from Kevin, everyone else also did an excellent job. Jennifer Garner (Alias), Timothy Olyphant (Deadwood), Julliette Lewis, Sam Jaeger, Fiona Shaw and everyone else turned in strong performances as people trying to come to terms with the grief of losing a best friend, a fiancee, a provider and a son.

I found myself laughing at the horrible yet comic realism.

From what I understand this is Susannah Grants major motion picture directorial debut, but it didn't feel like it. Already an extremely well proven screen writer, this may be Susannah's first movie directing job, but with this many laughs and this much emotion, I know it won't be her last.

Gray (Jennifer Garner) thought that she and her fiance Grady would be getting married this weekend, but instead she's attending his funeral. Already destroyed at the loss of what could have been, she's devastated to learn that Grady had a secret life that he kept from her including a million dollar estate and a toddler love child. When the mother of said child comes looking for Grady, she must confront the past in order to have a future. Juliette Lewis gives her all as the slightly trampy quasi-Earth mother.

As Gray comes to terms with his betrayal, she turns to his roommates for solace and a place to stay since she can no longer afford the house they were renting. Through this quasi-extended family, she discovers the Grady she never knew, as well as the Gray that she is now becoming, and finds herself getting closer to his lothario friend Fritz (Timothy Olyphant), as friends Sam and Dennis also experience difficulty dealing with the loss of their friend.

Writer/director Susannah Grant, best known as the scribe behind "Erin Brokovich" and "In Her Shoes," has created a poignant story of love, loss, and forgiveness. Kevin Smith shows a serious side as well as provides comic relief as Sam, the inspirational comment writer (okay, typist) for "Constant Comment Teas." Veteran British actress Fiona Shaw, hysterical as the horny headmistress of the tony boarding school in "Three Men and a Little Lady," dons an American accent and gives a heartwarming performance of a mother who just wants her son back. And Juliette Lewis is a bit chiched in the role of flighty masseuse Maureen, who apparently doesn't own a pair of flat shoes.

Though some might find the romance between Gray and Fritz develop a little too quickly, I thought it was handled tastefully given the love-hate relationship between them and how thin the line between the two can be (though the ending was a bit rushed). Missing from the film was Grady himself a couple flashbacks with him would have added depth to the relationship between Gray and Grady and given us a chance to find out what made him such a touchstone for the five lead characters.

The disc's special features are minimal just lots of movie trailers and commentary nothing to write home about.

Buy Catch and Release (2007) Now

I went into watching this with no idea what to expect. I haven't really seen Jennifer Garner in much of anything (wasn't an Alias fan) but I like Kevin Smith and I think Timothy Olyphant is really cute :) so I decided to give it a chance.

This is actually a very sweet, heartfelt little movie. It doesn't contain many earth-shattering revelations about the Meaning of Life but it is head and shoulders above most romantic comedies, in my opinion. It does bring up some interesting points in answer to the question, "How well do we really know the people we love?" I thought that Garner's characters' struggles with the aftermath of her fiance's death the big secret he concealed from her, dealing with her ex-future-mother-in-law, the roommate who blames himself for her fiance's death, the roommate who is in love with her, the friend who was complicit in her fiance's dishonesty who she's now attracted to, the "other woman," etc. were realistically-portrayed and entertaining to watch.

Garner was delightful in this role and I thought portrayed the emotions and mental struggles of her character very authentically. Kevin Smith was great you forget what a good actor he can be because his own movies get so bogged down in substituting volume of dialogue for quality. In this he actually brings a lot of subtle humor and heart to his role, which in his hands would probably have not been handled nearly as deftly. Timothy Olyphant is deliciously sexy and he also brings a lot of subtle light and shading to his role, and plays the romantic hero in a bit of a different way than you usually see. The movie did have some interesting points about how much we blind ourselves to the faults of the people we love. One of my favorite scenes was very near the end, when Gray is talking about a perfect day on the river she shared with her fiance. At the end of the day, driving home, he says he needs to tell her something, and she asks if it will make her happier or less happy. When he says "less happy" she tells him not to tell her. I think we all have a tendency to choose blissful ignorance over painful knowledge where are loved ones are concerned, and can make ourselves be happy with that even when we know we're choosing not to know the whole truth about them.

All in all, this is not a real "feel-good" picture although the ending is happy. It's not a tortured indie but nor is it a brainless mush of a rom-com that we've all seen a hundred million times. I liked it because it was serious and dealt with tough subjects but was uplifting overall. I hate brainless movies, but I also dislike how depressing many "serious" movies are. I don't need any more reasons to lose faith in my fellow man; if I want to see man's inhumanity to man all I have to do is turn on the evening news. I liked "Catch and Release" because it was not a dumb movie but it was not depressing either. Recommended for cynics like me, who still believe in love at the end of the day. :)

Read Best Reviews of Catch and Release (2007) Here

I won't bore you with a summary of the plot, which has already been outlined. I would prefer to highlight how this movie and its aesthetics affected me.

This movie was tastefully directed and the script was witty and intelligent. The comedy was surprising, in that you didn't expect it. I mean, I knew it was a comedy, but I didn't expect the humor to have such intelligence each laugh the movie evoked caught me off guard, because I wasn't expecting it. And that's the best kind of humor there is. I laughed and laughed, especially at Sam, who could make a serious situation funny with just the teensiest effort. And Garner's "She's f'in p.o.'d" line was just awesome! And on top of everything else, the cinematography and soundtrack beautifully captured the spirit of the film. This movie is a work of art that captures all your senses very well put together with wonderful chemistry between the actors.

And I have a new favorite actor: Timothy Olyphant. I saw him in Hitman, but it took me a while to put it together that this was the same guy. He pulled off the easygoing, comedic peformance in this movie without a hitch, something I wouldn't have seen coming based on his Hitman performance, which was also way-cool! And that kiss! Whoa! Well, I guess I should say "kissES" coz ol' Timothy knows how to add the sizzle and spice more than once in this movie. I mean, I thought the kiss at the end of "The Lake House" was good, but the kissing scene in this movie put Keanu and Sandra to shame! Is it gettin' hot in here or is it just me?

At any rate, I loved the story, I loved the humor, I loved the romance, I loved everything about this movie. It wasn't a cliche, which was so refreshing. This has become a staple in my movie library.

Want Catch and Release (2007) Discount?

I don't think this movie deserves the very good or very bad reviews.

I think it lacks a polished ending, some of the characters are not very well filled out (where are Gray's parents? Girl-friends?) & editing is what has killed this movie. Several scenes that possibly wound up on the cutting room floor (the original director's cut was over 3 hours) might have been better in the movie, and vice versa.

I don't think the central romantic relationship is that unbelievable. Attraction is a strange thing. I also think people who say Gray wouldn't have gone for Fritz perhaps miss the point that ours AND Gray's first impression of him is supposed to be proven to be incorrect. Perhaps a couple of scenes to help us warm to him might have helped?

All in all I don't think this was a disatrous movie but sadly I think it could have been so much better as the central premise is an interesting one and it had a good cast.

Save 20% Off

Read More >>

The Back-Up Plan (2010)

As a fan of romantic comedies, Jennifer Lopez, and Alex O'Loughlin, I loved this movie. Yes, it followed the typical plot structure and conventions of romantic comedies, but, so what? (Why aren't action movies, and other movies aimed at men, criticized for being even more formulaic than rom-coms? Only so-called "chick-flicks" are judged this harshly for following the structure of their genre.) I wasn't expecting a masterpiece that would sweep the awards shows. I was looking for some fun, heartwarming entertainment, and this movie delivers. Jennifer Lopez is wonderful at physical comedy, and we saw another side of Alex O'Loughlin. Having only seen him in intense, brooding roles, I was surprised at how well he delivered in a comedy. As a bonus, we also got to enjoy Tom Bosley in his final role, a bittersweet moment for his fans.

Even though critics weren't kind in their reviews of this film, I loved it particularly the acting, which was authentic and superb. Alex O'Loughlin is a terrific leading man, and after seeing this film I was motivated to watch his "Moonlight" Series on DVD and start watching him on Hawaii 5-0. The only downside for me were the scenes in the support group, particularly the birthing scene. When I watch the film on DVD I skip through all scenes containing the support group. It's over-the-top stupid and offensive in my opinion and makes the difficulty of child birth seem like a joke. But the dog playing "Nuts" and the sweet romantic scenes make this film worth watching.

Buy The Back-Up Plan (2010) Now

Very good fun. While Jennifer Lopez is the "star" of the movie, don't sell Alex O'Loughlin short. He REALLY makes this movie great! His reactions to the situation(s) is what truly makes this a great comedy. Looking forward to seeing more of him in the future.

Read Best Reviews of The Back-Up Plan (2010) Here

I have very mixed reactions to writing a review for this movie. I did enjoy it despite its flaws. Would I have watched/bought it without Alex O'Loughlin in it? Definitely not. It had some funny moments and some really awful ones (that birthing scene could have been funny, but it was a bit much over-reacting or over-acting)?? Alex made a great, gorgeous leading man he does THE best love scenes with those bedroom eyes OMG. He also showed his flair for comedy and was a great foil for J-Lo's neurotic character oozing charm and patience. His scenes with the Dad of three kids playing in the park were really hilarious. J-Lo's leading men in these romantic comedies (like Ralph Fiennes in Maid in Manhattan) are always beautiful, charming and delightful actors all of whom make her look good. This is a wonderful, feel-good movie to watch repeatedly every now and then mostly to have the absolute indulgence of watching Alex on the big screen. I hope he gets more big-screen movie work in the very near future.

Want The Back-Up Plan (2010) Discount?

Immediate chemistry between Jennifer Lopez and Alex O'Loughlin.

Zoe a single New Yorker decided that at her age with no husband in sight she would have a baby. What she didn't count on was meeting the handsome and sexy, Stan.....Mr. Right. On top of their whirl win romance they found out Zoe was expecting twins.

Like every romance ups and down and so many sweet moments.

In one scene, Zoe and Stan are at a friends home while she was giving birth in a pool and I almost split from laughing so hard.

Zoe coming to terms with the past and wanting Stan in her life was fun, yet emotional at times. A great cast of characters in this film and a dog with "no legs" on a cart, you'll fall in love with!

Save 50% Off

Read More >>

The Good, the Bad, the Weird (2010)

Small wonder that after director Kim Jee-Woon's magnificent "A Tale of Two Sisters" and the terrific "A Bittersweet Life" that his next film would be so eagerly anticipated. "The Good, The Bad, The Weird" has won numerous awards in Asia, achieved box-office acclaim in South Korea and has been selected for the Cannes film festival. I've said before that an Asian western isn't exactly an original concept; there was a video game called "Western Samurai", the Hong Kong produced "Peace Hotel" and most recently, Takashi Mike's "Sukiyaki Western Django" from Japan. Well, it seems like South Korea won't be left behind and with Kim Jee-Woon at the helm, expectations are rather high and the man doesn't disappoint.

A two-bit bumbling crook named Tae-Goo "The Weird" (Song Kang-Ho, Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance) robs a train only to unintentionally make off with a Quing Dynasty treasure map. Everyone wants this map; the Japanese army, the Korean independence group as well as a lot of shady characters. On Tae-goo's tail is a relentless killer named Park Chang-Yi "The Bad" (Lee Byung-Hyun, A Bittersweet Life) who is also after the map and has a seemingly personal reason as to why he wants Tae-Goo's head on a plate. In hot pursuit for both of them is a bounty hunter named Park Do-Won (Jung Woo-Sung, The Restless) who can do nicely with the bounty for Chang-Yi's capture or the treasure itself. Now, these three men are on a collision course--who would win out in the end?

Kim Jee-Woon's "The Good the Bad the Weird" is an extremely well-made film and is a highly entertaining genre-busting affair. This chaotic period similar to the wild west in America, a Machuria-set "kimchi" western (as opposed to "sukiyaki") is a melting pot of all things awesome about westerns and looks like a homage to Sergio Leone's "spaghetti westerns". There's a train heist, lots of shoot-outs in a small town and cool characters. You'll see bits and pieces of "The Good the Bad and the Ugly" (so obvious with the film's title), "A Fistful of Dollars" and even Miike's "Sukiyaki Western Django". The film has a very large budget and it shows, the film is exquisitely shot and the superb style and camerawork reminded me of Ryuhei Kitamura (Azumi). Director Kim definitely knows his stuff in style and with the film's intriguing concept, Asian and Korean cinema fans have reason to see this film, and it is definitely something that a "solid" Asian film fan just can't miss.

The film's set designs and architecture maintain some of that "dynasty-era" Korean period but it does have a strong touch of the old west. It has some rather creative touches; there is some swordplay, knives used with brutality, there's a big guy with a huge hammer, a "sleeping Buddha" under construction, rifles with telescopes, motorcycles and jeeps, saloons and more--all these contribute to the film's "mixing of genres" style. Director Kim also seems to be having a lot of fun with the film, as he never forgets his touches of humor to help the film's pace and his stunning camerawork which proves to be the film`s showstopper. Explosions and gunfire are aplenty; highlights include a very cool town gunfight and a very long chase sequence with the ensembled cast supported by dozens of extras. I've read that Kim actually had cameramen hanging on wires to shoot the desert scenes--Kim Jee-Woon's talent shines through.

The action scenes are very exciting and exquisitely executed. It looks like director Kim took some pointers from Ryuhei Kitamura because they are just so full of "coolness" that can make action scribe John Woo a little jealous. Kim also avoids the use of CGI in the action and depends mostly on elaborate stunts and old-fashioned camera trickey; there is minimal use of CGI enhanced effects but only in the film's set designs. Ok, so some scenes required a large suspension of disbelief, I rather found Jung Woo-Sung's Do-Won's skills with a gun a little too over-the-top especially when he engages a large number of the Japanese army. He never even gets grazed by a bullet so either Do-Won is unbelievably good or these guys just supremely suck. But hey, this is a minor complaint, after all I don't think this film was meant to be taken seriously and more of a homage film. Hey, please take note that Kim doesn't hold back with the blood--and the way he executes it kept the film from having too much of that "comic bookish" feel. There is also a legend of a certain "Finger chopper" that gives some surprises and I felt that the screenplay played its cards well.

Song Kang-Ho's Tae-Goo arguably steals the show and proves to be the film's most interesting character--the actor also proves as to why he is one of South Korea's most sought after performers. The man can act in almost any film I've seen that further cements his reputation in versatility. Lee Byung Hyun does have the most intense presence onscreen, his character along with Song Kang-Ho's Tae-goo are the kind of characters that can elevate the film into "cult status". Jung Woo-Sung's "the Good" character feels a little too cool and lacks precision, but the actor does do the best with what he has. Still, the three popular actors mesh very well and has dynamic chemistry. Oh, the women are also great-looking and serves to titillate the male audience.

"The Good, The Bad, The Weird" is a very polished film that lived up to my expectations. The film's plot isn't too deep, but the film's "wow" factor is just so incredibly impressive that I can look pass the very simple plot which makes it essentially a chase film. It is a solid film, that exudes popcorn entertainment but its characters do carry much of the film's weight. It may be little too pre-occupied in becoming captivated with itself but its small flaws aren't really worth to nitpick. The film is an action-packed affair that action junkies will never become bored--as for the rest, they can find something else to like in the film--its characters, style and performers will definitely impress. I'm happy to say that Kim Jee-Woon's film lived up to the hype.

Highly Recommended! [4 ½Stars]

There are two versions of the film. The International version (the one presented in Cannes) is arguably the better paced, leaner film that maintains a touch of mystery at the end. The Korean 130 minute cut has more development to Tae-Goo's character and an extended climax that answers a lot of questions. The official U.S. version is expected to have the original 130 minute version.

I love this film. I am admittedly a junkie for Korean cinema, and this is one of the better films to come from that country in the past few years. A really exciting, action-filled "eastern" that takes place in the early 20th century in Manchuria. There are some flat-out great gun fights and chases throughout the entire film. Actually, the movie is like one giant chase with ample set pieces. The camera work and pacing is excellent and the performances are quite memorable. The tone is comically light, but never cartoonish. If you consider yourself a fan of action cinema, this is a must-watch.

BUT, the blu-ray is 1080i!! Most of the time when Asian films get a 1080i transfer, it's because that's the only one available and the studio releasing the film is lazy/cheap. Like with some of the HK/Chinese blus. What that means practically is that there was pixellating in the image when the camera panned slowly. Also, in wide shots with lots of little detail, the image gets kinda blocky. This is a particularly unforgivable offense as there is another, apparently great 1080p transfer available in other markets. Very lame IFC. Sorry.

Buy The Good, the Bad, the Weird (2010) Now

Sergio Leone on a bender in 1930s Manchuria.

Almost non-stop action, most of it tongue in cheek but nicely choreographed, lots of color and pizazz, and above all an endearing sense of absurdity make this a pleasure to watch. Director Ji-Woon knows the genre well and delights in subverting it without mercy; the guy in the diving helmet was one of my favorites. Any movie that takes itself this unseriously yet also delivers thrills and humor is a success by any measure; that it's Korean and does Hollywood one better makes it all the more fun.

Some of the violence is a little overdone, but it's all rather comic-bookish anyhow. The real highlight for me were the many incredibly long, tight tracking shots, full of wild angles and unexpected twists and turns of the camera. Shots like that take great care and preparation and for so many of them to work so well is no mean feat (the extras docs show just how wild some of these set-ups were). To have it all be this wacky and light-hearted yet also so breakneck is a real achievement. Plus the acting is both gleefully hammy and surprisingly well done: I never once thought, "What a crappy take." Somehow it all just fits, once again in the spirit of the best spaghetti westerns.

It does go on a little longer than it might have, with too much time spent pontificatin' to no real end, but that and the occasional gratuitously graphic violence were my only qualms. I loved that there was no English-language dubbing (which is so often so bad), just the original Korean and good subtitles full of flavor and colloquial feel. This is how it should be done. All in all, it's an over the top shoot-em-up and delivers on that promise in spades, diamonds and treasure maps.

The blu-ray is very nicely done, not a flawless transfer but very good, and there are a bunch of solid extras, including various interviews and making-ofs; it's a nice package and will no doubt contribute to this film's inevitable cult status. There've been a few other Asian westerns but this one is in a league of its own, and the quality of the image along with the color and the humor make it a real treat to watch. And it's almost all shot outdoors in natural light, often in gloriously huge mountainous wilderness, so it feels very real even with all its goofiness, and the final motorcycle/horse/jeep battle is a true classic.

[A note to any surfers out there: when you see the sea in the distance at 1:18:02, check out those insane, endless tubes peeling off in a perfect set. Surf Manchuria!]

If you like westerns, Asian cinema, great cinematography, nutty genre humor, or/and just a good old-fashioned fun movie, Good Bad Weird is for you.

Read Best Reviews of The Good, the Bad, the Weird (2010) Here

n the surface, Kim Ji-Won's ("A Tale of Two Sisters," "A Bittersweet Life") 2008 film, "The Good, The Bad & the Weird," is clearly a homage to Sergio Leone's Spaghetti Westerns, but it also draws much inspiration, in terms of tone and temperament, from much more lighthearted fare like Steven Spielberg's "Indiana Jones" films.

Shot in Western China near the Gobi Desert, the film is set in a harsh, flat landscape that could just as easily stand in for the American Southwest circa 1860, as well as Manchuria in the 1930's. Into this inhospitable terrain has come, it seems, every Korean thief, gunfighter and gangster, all fleeing the brutality of the Japanese Occupation of Korea (1910-1945), including: a noble, if cold-blooded, bounty hunter Do-Weon ("The Good,") played by Woo Sung Jun (the heroic former slave in "Musa the Warrior,"); a vicious, if terribly insecure, urban gangster turned train robber, Park Chang-Yi ("The Bad"), played by Rom-Com hearthrob Lee Byeong-heon (who surprised many audiences with his portrayal of a young gangster in "A Bittersweet Life"), and Sang Kang-Ho (who has given great lead performances in lauded Korean dramas like "Joint Security Area," "Memories of Murder," and "Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance,") who carries much of the film with his comedic portrayal of Yoon Tae-Gu ("The Weird"), a doofus of a bandit, who kicks off the action by making off with a priceless Q'ing Dynasty treasure map.

It's the race for said map, by mercenaries hired by proand anti-Japanese forces, as well as local thieves and roving bands of bandits, that drives the story, as seen in lively, extended action-packed set pieces: a bloody train robbery, a crazed gun battle in a sprawling desert marketplace, and a wild horse-motorcycle-jeep & truck chase across miles of territory. There is very little depth here (which is a tad disappointing given the films huge budget and 130 minute running time), but on the whole, the film is an enjoyable ride, loaded with sharp, often funny characterizations, elaborate and intense action scenes, and a general good humor that lends a welcome bouyancy to the often crazed proceedings. The movie should easily sate the appetite of almost all action movie fans, prime yourself for a fun fast moving ride through shallow waters and you should do fine.

Want The Good, the Bad, the Weird (2010) Discount?

This movie has everything! From the very first scene (amazing) to the very last (did NOT see that coming) I was enthralled. A South Korean film set in 1940's Manchuria, this film is the funniest action-packed western you'll ever hope to see. I watched it with my 8 year old son, re-rented it 2 days later at his urging and ordered it from Amazon the next day to save rental fees. With the unexpected soundtrack (I don't want to ruin it for you) play this movie loud. I can't decide if this or Inception was the best movie I've seen all year. The difference is I could watch this movie ten times and not tire of it. What are you waiting for? Click on "Add to Cart"!!

Save 67% Off

Read More >>

Love Aaj Kal (2009)

I really like that LOVE AAJ KAL, a romantic comedy that segues into a drama, takes a more sophisticated approach and allows for real emotional development, something we don't get too much of from the generic Bollywood product, what with Indian cinema so hooked on sweeping over-the-top romances. When director Imtiaz Ali met star/co-producer Saif Ali Khan in the first of their pre-production meetings, he told him, "All I know about this story is that two people meet to break up." It's an interesting take, and the premise gets even more interesting with the introduction of two interweaving storylines, one set in contemporary times, the other set in 1965.

London today, and Jai's opening gambit when hitting on de ladies goes something like this: "I don't mean to pile on but..." This must be a colloquial Indian maneuver, since this phrase strikes me as a pretty odd flirting tool. Meera, lovely and outspoken, certainly isn't impressed, and she calls Jai out on it. Still, they start a fun year-long romance, chronicled in the film's first seven minutes in abrupt episodic moments. But then careers get in the way and Jai and Meera being a sensible couple there's an amicable parting of ways (there's even a break-up party).

Somewhere along here, Jai is befriended by coffee shop owner and old sikh Veer Singh (Rishi Kapoor) who goes on to give him advice and to recount his own long ago romance. Jai's romantic plight strikes a chord with Veer and he begins to reminisce. And this is when the secondary story arc is introduced.

It's 1965 in Delhi, India. Veer Singh is a sikh and something of a rough fella. But his ornery demeanor shifts once he sets his eyes on the very shy Harleen. It's a long distance romance, really, as Veer and Harleen barely exchange any dialogue. Just tons of furtive longing glances, and Veer doing his best to woo her from afar. It seems to work, until he learns that Harleen's family has arranged a marriage for her. And we wait to see just how far Veer will go for love (turns out, he goes pretty far).

On the surface, the cynical modern love story serves as a counterpoint against Bollywood's traditional idealistic romance (in which a man may be so besotted that he travels hundreds of miles from Delhi to Calcutta on a rattling train just to catch a glimpse of his love). But a closer look gives us the film's true message, that love may wear different fashions, that behavior may be reflected by the respective era, but love remains universally the same and confounds even obstacles such as cynicism and practicality. This is a really good movie from India. It mostly stays away from silly elements and the relatively understated tone goes a ways into lending believability to the plot. And it does feel like there's a solid connection between the two generations of lovers onscreen.

The acting is terrific across the board. We've seen Saif Ali Khan take on roles like "Jai" before in SALAAM NAMASTE and in HUM TUM, you know, the charismatic fun-loving guy unwilling to settle down. His character's journey to maturation is pretty predictable. Saif also plays the bearded and turban-coiffed Veer Singh of 1965, and Veer is a far cry from Jai, unabashedly romantic where Jai is flighty and dismissive. It's a nod to Saif's acting ability that you're able to separate the two characters even as they share the same features.

Deepika Padukone, long-legged and stunning, is the revelation. She's simply marvelous and adds surprising depth and warmth to Meera, and, c'mon, how can you not fall in love with her? She makes Meera a character you really root for, a girl perfectly aware of what's going on every step of the way and hoping against hope that her guy would get wise and catch up. Harleen, the other lady in question, is played by 20-year-old Brazilian model Giselle Monteiro, who had initially auditioned for the role of Jai's Caucasian girlfriend (yes, Jai does try to move on after Meera). However, the director's wife pointed out that Giselle would make a better Harleen, since Director Imtiaz Ali had been getting frustrated finding the right actress for that part. Not exactly rocking the Hindi language, Giselle Monteiro doesn't get a lot of dialogue, which is probably a wise thing. Giselle's identity was kept under wraps until the movie's theatrical release.

Besides the opening seven minutes of quick cuts, LOVE AAJ KAL throughout its running time is rife with transitional images which fall outside of chronological order. It's a disjointed technique but there's a sense of gratification as you do eventually see how these images fit within the framework of the story.

The production values on this film are top notch. Not only is the contemporary story arc set in the slick international backdrops of London, San Francisco and modern Delhi, but the 1965 setting is also nicely, convincingly evoked. Not that I'm a huge expert or anything, having only recently started watching old Bollywood classics from the '60s and '70s but I least now know how much Rishi Kapoor and his wife Neetu impacted Indian cinema in the '70s.

The musical numbers are alternately hip and charmingly old-fashioned. "Dooriyan" is a contemplative, soulful song about distances and separation. "Twist" is toe-tapping stuff and showcases Saif's unexpectedly smooth dance moves (even Saif's admitted to being a stiff at dancing). "Ajj Din Chadheya" is sweetly done and frames Veer and Harleen's courtship at a distance. "Thoda Thoda Pyar" is the old-school courtyard number featuring a dancing Giselle (according to the commentary, Giselle drove the dance choreographers up the wall because, well, as someone new to the culture, she couldn't quite grasp the moves). "Chor Bazaari" is fun and serenades Jai and Meera as they hang out on the sly in Delhi.

2 discs for this one. Disc 1 has the feature presentation, an option to check out the film's musical numbers, and the film commentary in English by Saif Ali Khan & Director Imtiaz Ali. Disc 2 has the following special features: the Making Of the film segment; the Making of the songs; LOVE AAJ KAL Journey which is even more behind-the-scenes stuff (although one does get tired of a segment that keeps popping up, the one about the crew going on and on about the hassle of shooting in horrible Delhi traffic); deleted scenes and quick shots with director's commentary (including a sequence in a sweet's shop featuring Jai and Meera and the now aged Veer and Harleen); the promotional press conference with the lead actors & crew; a remix video of "Twist"; the audio release function basically, another press conference this time focusing on the music in the film; and the original theatrical trailer.

Love Aaj Kal is DEFINITELY one of the very best 2009 romantic comedies I have ever, ever seen in an utterly long time... the two main leads (Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone playing as Jai and Meera, respectively) are just flat-out fantastic, and the way the two love stories from two different generations of time interconnect with each other is just seamlessly and most flawlessly brilliant indeed; you can just literally sense the sheer chemistry, the compelling character development, their painful heartaches, and one powerhouse performance after another in this original Hindi-language film from start to finish, combined with such an outstanding story that just makes you want to leap with great joy and go all the way, guaranteed!!! ;)

Shot on location in San Francisco, London, and New Dehli as the main backdrops, what makes this movie *extremely* so special for me personally is that all the dating and relationships here are handled in quite an absolutely, ABSOLUTELY fresh and alive and splendidly convincing and rather strikingly mature manner indeed between the characters and what they are going through also, and even much more better is that we end up fully and genuinely with an amazing, non-stop rooting interest in those two main characters throughout, especially as well in the key point late in the film where we actually sense that Meera and Jai's emotional, secretly attractive connection to each other is seriously at risk when they are in sudden jeopardy in their relationship! I am not gonna spill the beans on what happens at the very end here... but one thing is for certain: with fantastic pacing, excellent laughs, amazing non-stop energy, first-rate songs to lift the action so wonderfully, and an incredibly top-notch modern-day romance that spans two generations, Love Aaj Kal literally blows away all of the contrived, obnoxious, and most blatantly lifeless 2009 American theatrical romance comedies (i.e. The Ugly Truth, Love Happens, and All About Steve to name a few!) to kingdom come. PERIOD, final.

DO NOT MISS THIS ONE especially with your loved one as well, because this is your perfect date movie that you must, must see indeed... you will *not* be even disappointed whatsoever, and congratulations to Illuminati Films, Eros International, and especially to writer/director Imtias Ali as well on quite a watershed brilliance of a romance-comedy film well made!!!! (^-^)v !!

Buy Love Aaj Kal (2009) Now

With highlight over Contemporary romance in comparison to older times love, this new hindi movie is meant for the youth and completely relates to both the generations. It is a movie that throws light on how the 2 generations don't understand each other and how broad each of their thinking is. With a starcast like Deepika Padukone and Saif Ali Khan, who are the face of youth in Bollywood, the movie shows how love in two different generations was the same feeling.... flowery. It's just about how people treat their love differently. Comparing the lifestyles of people in 2 different countries, the movie is based in London, Delhi and Calcutta. It showcases the best of the 2 countries.

It's a feel good movie and worth watching again and again with the high quality picturization and amazing dance and romantic songs churned into a beautiful tale of 2 generations that makes you feel that "love" is truly a bliss and worth giving your life for just like Veer (Saif Ali Khan) does!!

Read Best Reviews of Love Aaj Kal (2009) Here

This is one of my favorite movies to come out of Bollywood. Though I am just now diving into the very deep waters of Indian cinema, I know a pearl when I see one. This movie is both timely and timeless, with a theme that will speak to anyone's heart. Also, the music is spectacular. Since this is Saif Ali Khan's first foray into producing, I hope to see many more great films come out of his studio in the upcoming years.

Want Love Aaj Kal (2009) Discount?

I'm gonna give this film full marks because it doesn't try to be a romantic comedy and unlike a lot of Bollywood films takes itself seriously. Saif was superb while Deepika only outshines him with her effortless grace and intriguing character. Some surprises as far as guest appearances are concerned but the film will win you over. A great film both for cynics and for daydreamers.

I strongly recommend.

Save 51% Off

Read More >>

Seven Psychopaths (+UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2012)

Martin McDonagh, among the best known Irish directors previously won an Oscar for the short movie Six shooter A Collection of 2005 Academy Award Nominated Short Films although he is perhaps best known for the acclaimed In Brugesalso starring Colin Farrell, a dark comedy with tragic overtones about two hitmen on the run.

I first heard of this movie last year when I saw the movie The Guard directed by his brother Michael John. A trademark of the McDonaghs is dark humor mixed with some irony and perhaps even some philosophy together with some absurdity. As I loved The Guard so much and it has the biggest domestic box office of any Irish movie ever made, I looked forward to this latest movie with more than a little anticipation.

If you're like me and like American directors who also write such as Tarantino with Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill, or the Coen Brothers with No Country for Old Men, I think you will also like this.

Seven Psychopaths centers around an Irish screenwriter nemed Martin played by Colin Farrell planning to write a movie about seven psychopaths. Life begins to imitate art as a similar tableau to the one he writes about starts to unfold in real life.

Woody Harrelson plays Sam a local organised crime leader whose dog is kidnapped by Walken and Sam Rockwell's character who happen to be friends of Martin. Sam cares more about dogs than people. The real mixes with the imaginary in very intriguing ways, and kept the movie audience entertained. I particularly liked the scenes with the Vietnamese priest and the hooker, and the Quaker story. There is also a hit man with a white rabbit played by Tom Waits.

The revelatory performance in this movie comes from Sam Rockwell when he helps out Martin with the screenplay lending some psychotic absurdity to the scenes although everyone is excellent.

What I like is that McDonagh while clearly inspired by Tarantino and Coen imposes his unique style and does not kowtow to Hollywood conventions and delivers a movie that experiments with different styles of humor and yet manages to engross you so much in the moment that you do not attempt to guess the end. If you do you would probably guess wrong.

I love how he works the opening scene with two hitmen discussing preparing for a hit and how the scene turns out.

While I would not consider this better than say In Bruges there is a certain heaviness in the theme of In Bruges that is not present here and some people may prefer the more light heated nature of this movie which is a highly welcome and worthy addition to the McDonagh repertoire.

I hope the McDonagh brothers will work together as I think they could give the Coen brothers a run for their money.

I think you will love it and I hope this was helpful.

Some 3-4 years ago, director Martin McDonagh teamed up with Colin Farrell in an absurd but very funny crime comedy called "In Bruges". I loved that movie (and not just because it was filmed in the Belgian city of Bruges, where I spent my high school years). Now comes another crime comedy from the same team.

"Seven Psychopaths" (2012 release; 110 min.) brings the story of Marty (played by Farrell), a struggling writer who is working on a movie script called "Seven Psychopaths". His buddy Billy (played by Sam Rockwell) is volunteering to help in any way possible. At some point Billy steals a little dog, and only later do we learn that the dog's owner is Charlie (played by Woody Harrelson), a dangerous gangster who is out for revenge. Last, but certainly not least, there is Hans (played by Christopher Walken), a buddy of Billy's. There are a bunch of smaller characters in the movie. To be honest, I had a hard time keeping track of the multitude of characters, and the fact that part of the movie is a recreation of the script that Marty is writing. A script within the script, so to speak. After a while I simply let go of it all, and just watched the movie for what it is, regardless of the actual or percieved plot lines: another absurd (and I do mean that as a compliment) crime drama.

Couple of side comments: with apologies to Colin Farrell, but in my opinion Sam Rockwell steals the movie. His acting is sharp and he brings his character in a way that made me smile if not laugh out loud, just by seeing him. I also was surprised to see that this movie is not just playing at the art house here in Cincinnati (where I saw it), but also at a number of mainstream mulitplexes. The movie was not very well attended when I saw it this past weekend, and I can't imnagine that a dark and violent movie like this one, even with plenty of humor and comedy, will be a big hit, but I could be wrong of course. Bottom line is this: if you liked "In Bruges", which in style and approach is very similar to this one, you will love "Seven Psychopaths". If you found that "In Bruges" was not your cup of tea, save yourself the trouble and don't bother with this.

Buy Seven Psychopaths (+UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2012) Now

Being a big fan of "In Bruges," getting excited for writer, director, and now producer Martin McDonagh's latest film "Seven Psychopaths" was like second nature. "In Bruges" is begging for a revisit, but it added a lot of humor to hitmen and crime situations that usually try to be gritty or as serious as humanly possible in films before it. "In Bruges" had this uniqueness to it and "Seven Psychopaths" is even more creative and hilarious in comparison.

A struggling screenwriter named Marty (Colin Farrell) has an idea for his next screenplay; a movie entitled "Seven Psychopaths." The problem is Marty is having difficulty coming up with the actual story or the psychopaths for that matter and his alcoholism often gets the better of him. His strange best friend Billy (Sam Rockwell), who kidnaps dogs with a religious man named Hans (Christopher Walken) and returns them to get the reward, has extreme interest in helping Marty write his story. What Marty doesn't count on is Billy putting an ad in the newspaper that opens the door for all sorts of crazy individuals to contact him and know where he lives. Marty's thrown into a world he's never dreamt of because of it.

If you've seen the poster for this, it portrays Olga Kurylenko and Abbie Cornish as two of the seven psychopaths. Ignore this. They maybe have eight minutes of screen time between the two of them and other than being the girlfriends of a few of the main characters are mostly completely irrelevant to everything else going on. The opening of the film is extraordinary; mostly because the appearance of "Boardwalk Empire" alumni Michael Stuhlbarg and Michael Pitt was completely unexpected. Their "shot through the eyeball" conversation immediately sets the messy and eccentric tone of the film.

The original aspect of "Seven Psychopaths" resides in its writing. Marty is writing a movie called "Seven Psychopaths" during a film you're watching with the same name. The entire sequence where Marty, Billy, and Hans go out into the middle of nowhere to write the movie is incredible. Not only is it massively entertaining, but it gives you a number of different scenarios of how the film could play out and how Marty will decide to end his version of the movie. It's as if it shatters the fourth wall and then just keeps running for several miles.

There's also this hilarious sense of logic throughout the entire comedy. Sam Rockwell is the funniest he's ever been. He acts a bit off, but everything that comes out of his mouth is just hysterical. His version of how Marty's movie should end is his shining moment, but he steals the show whenever he's on screen or opens his mouth. Nearly every conversation is just absurd though, but it's so absurd that it makes way too much sense. The phrase, "That's just crazy enough to work!" was meant for this film.

The rest of the cast isn't wasted either. It's interesting that Mickey Rourke was originally supposed to portray Charlie since Woody Harrelson fits the role so well. His obsession with his dog makes the Charlie character completely unpredictable. Christopher Walken is really superb. He makes Hans seem so much more interesting than he really is and his rambling is often the voice of reason or so dry that it's laugh out loud funny. Tom Waits as Zachariah is captivating because of his backstory and fascination with bunnies. His motives along with his after credit sequence are just written so unusually that it's amusing.

There really isn't anything else out there like "Seven Psychopaths." If that Marvel movie about "Deadpool" ever gets off the ground, you can imagine it to be a lot like this; people getting killed left and right, blood everywhere, ridiculously hilarious conversations in between and during, and the entire experience leaving a smile on your face. There's also quite a bit buried beneath the laughs and the killing; the question of whether the afterlife is real and peace being more important than war. This comedy has a very sentimental center that catches you a bit off-guard, especially when it comes to the emotional ending. "Seven Psychopaths" is an automatic contender for the funniest and most original comedy of the year.

Read Best Reviews of Seven Psychopaths (+UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2012) Here

Writer-director Martin McDonagh arrived on the scene with his brilliant "In Bruges" a few years ago. It was different and heralded a unique new sensibility on the cinematic scene. "Seven Psychopaths" is no less audacious but may teeter a little by the weight of it's quirkiness. The conceit here is Irish screenwriter, Marty(Colin Farell) is blocked in delivering a script to his employers. He has a title, "Seven Psychopaths", and a concept of a Buddhist psychopath but nothing has been transferred from pen to paper. Ironically a couple associates of his Billy (Sam Rockwell) and Hans(Christopher Walken) have kidnapped the beloved Shih Tzu of a psychotic thug, Charlie (Woody Harrelson). Marty finds himself waist deep in psychopaths while he bounces ideas about the subject with Billy and Hans. The film has an interesting structure but sometimes you think McDonagh may be biting off more than he can chew. You know you're not in Kansas anymore when Christopher Walken is the most normal guy in the room. That said the film leaves an impression on you that it may gain momentum on repeat viewings. As it stands I give the film an A for effort and a B for execution.

Want Seven Psychopaths (+UltraViolet Digital Copy) (2012) Discount?

This is director (and writer) Martin McDonagh's third film and first since the very good "In Bruges" from 2008. A pair of small time con men (Sam Rockwell and Christopher Walken) specializes in stealing dogs, then returning them for the reward. Billy's (Rockwell) best friend Marty (Colin Farrell) is a wannabe screenwriter who only has the title for his movie (Seven Psychopaths) and a broad idea for a story. Marty's biggest problem seems to be that he's drunk all the time.

Billy offers to help him with the story but Marty is intent on doing it himself. Figuring he can give Marty some ideas, Billy runs an ad in a local trade paper, looking for reformed psychos to come in for an interview. Yeah, the film is full of craziness. This allows the always entertaining Tom Waits to show up as Zachariah, one of the seven psychos.

The films dognapping element becomes critical as Billy and Hans (Walken) kidnap a shih-tzu belonging to, yep, psycho crime lord Charlie (Woody Harrelson). There is nobody better than Walken when it comes to playing offbeat characters and he doesn't disappoint. While everybody makes contributions, this is Rockwell's movie. His character is interesting, funny and provocative. So is the movie. It is a bit complicated, so you have to pay attention. It is also extremely violent and the violence is pretty much just laughed away. Such is this wonderful dark comedy. It's absurd, messy, witty, smart and wildly entertaining. One of the best of the year.

Save 58% Off

Read More >>

Accidents Happen (2009)

I saw this film yesterday at a regional film festival in Dubbo NSW. It is one of several Australian films (yes, it was shot in suburban Sydney!) in recent years, aimed at the American market. But it remains thoroughly Australian in its quirky, almost black humour at times.

The film revolves around the central character of Billy Conway and his dysfunctional family (in fact, all the characters seem a bit that way inclined...). It recounts his misadventures and disasters, from the opening scenes where he plays under the hose sprinkler on his front lawn while the next door neighbour accidentally incinerates himself, to the car accident which kills his sister and puts his dynamic & mischevious older twin brother Gene into a vegetative state. When he takes up with Gene's 'partner-in-crime' Doug, son of a neighbouring family, they accidentally kill HIS father as well... The lovely Geena Davis plays a convincing and at times heart-rending role as Billy's sharp-tongued mother Gloria, ably backed by some wonderful emerging new talent in 14-year old Harrison Gilbertson as Billy, and Harry Cook as the also-ran 'other' twin brother, Larry (whose performance is loosely reminiscent of Gabby Millgate's character Joanie in Muriel's Wedding... "Muriel, you're awful...").

The ensuing trail of accidents & disasters ("I'm not exactly a good luck charm," Billy tells Doug at one point) are actually woven between some moments of genuine pathos and depth. The consequent collision of guilt, truth and self-discovery prove to be just what Billy and his family need to move on.

There are also some humorous cameos, like the two policemen... who become more of caricatures as the film progresses. And never underestimate the potential of a bowling ball....

Quirky comedy, coming-of-age movie, nostalgia trip... this film crosses over between several classifications. It was a pleasure to watch, evoking as it did considerable laughter, some tears, and a good deal of hope... and some profound moments to boot.

I was surprised at the R rating, despite a couple of graphic scenes... perhaps the innate black humour was not understood by the classification board as well as the audience I watched it with.

It is the debut feature from Australian writer/director Andrew Lancaster. Accidents Happen was also runner-up in the Audience Award at the 2009 Sydney Film Festival and was included in the Official Selection of the 2009 Tribeca Film Festival.

I look forward to seeing more of some of the previously unknown new talent in this film.

This was a well produced video that held your interest. No guns blazing, no fighting, sex or drugs (well except for the one joint and an alcoholic son). It was just a well made and acted movie with some black humor that never seemed to end. In the credits I could not believe it was made in Australia, everything said and looked like SURBURBAN AMERICA. Good video, see it, buy it keep it. Not a block buster but it kept you interested with a tear or two near the end, along with humor.

Buy Accidents Happen (2009) Now

I have watched this movie several times. It is funny, scary, and has a great ending. I would definitely recommend it.

Read Best Reviews of Accidents Happen (2009) Here

This is a excellent comedy and well put together. When looking at it. Just about every scene reminded me of something that happened to me in life. I normally don't look at the arts in this way. But, this movie just stuck out there in my face for real.

Want Accidents Happen (2009) Discount?

Absolutely wonderful movie! It was funny and moving all at the same time. I recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys dark comedy.

Save 38% Off

Read More >>