Based on a novella by Stephen King, The Shawshank Redemption is a harrowing tale about the triumph of the human spirit. The story follows a banker named Andy Duphrane who’s wrongfully convicted of killing his wife and her lover, and is sent to the Shawshank maximum security prison where he befriends another inmate named Red. Starring Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, John Sandler, and Clancy Brown, the film has an impressive cast that gives good performances. Additionally, screenwriter/director Frank Darabont does an excellent job at developing the characters and relationships; making the audience care about them and their plight. The set and costume designs too, are especially well-done; capturing the time-period and giving the prison a real, lived-in feel. Also, the score by Thomas Newman is emotionally evocative and has a soulfulness to it that heightens the material. The Shawshank Redemption is a remarkably compelling film with a powerful message.
Pixar strikes again with another brilliant installation of the Toy Story series. Woody, Buzz, Rex, Slinky and the gang return once more for another excursion into the world of toys. Toy Story 2 is one of those rare films that surpasses the original. Not only has the quality of the CG animation improved, but the story has more heart to it. Even the comedy seems a bit sharper and is a bit funnier now that we know the characters. Toy Story 2 is a shining example of a sequel done right.
From The Simpsons creator Matt Groening comes the animated sci-fi comedy Futurama. Smart and satirical, the show delivers a unique and edgy brand of comedy that's a lot of fun. Season 1 follows a pizza delivery boy named Fry who is accidentally cryogenically frozen on New Year's Eve 2000 and wakes up a thousand years later to a future that he never could have imagined. It's an interesting setup and the show does a good job at world building; creating colorful aliens and strange new technologies for the 31st century. And aside from its great cast of regular characters, some special guest stars stop by; including Leonard Nimoy, Pamela Anderson, and the Beastie Boys. Futurama's first season is wonderfully charming, and brilliantly spoofs the sci-fi genre.
“Bueller? Bueller? Bueller?” From writer/director John Hughes comes one of the most iconic films of the ‘80s, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. The story follows high school senior Ferris Bueller, who ditches school in order to have a day of adventure and gets into crazy shenanigans with his freinds. Starring Matthew Broderick, Mia Sara, Alan Ruck, and Jennifer Grey, the film has a great cast; Broderick in particular has a lot of charisma. And the comedy is especially well-written, with some very clever meta humor and breaking of the fourth wall. Entertaining and incredibly fun, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is an excellent comedy and one of John Hughes’ best films.
A smart and provocative drama, Crash challenges audiences with complex racial and social issues. Set in LA during Christmas, the film follows several groups of people, including two police officers, a pair of thieves, a Hollywood director, a Middle-Eastern shop owner, as their lives intersect. The discussion of race relations during the season of “Peace on Earth and Goodwill toward Men” is quite apt, and while the racial messages may be heavy handed at times, there are some truly powerful moments that stay with you long after the film ends. Equally as impressive is the ensemble cast (Don Cheadle, Sandra Bullock, Ryan Phillippe, Terrence Howard, Thandie Newton), as each actor delivers a strong, compelling performance. Shades of gray and ambiguity surround each character, giving them an authenticity that keeps them from becoming two-dimensional stereotypes. Additionally, the filmmakers refrain from giving clear-cut answers, or making judgments; letting the audience come to their own conclusions instead. Crash is a raw, hard-hitting drama that takes a challenging look at society, and forces the audience to confront their preconceptions.
From Jerry Bruckheimer and Michael Bay comes the explosive action-packed thriller The Rock. When a group of rogue marines capture Alcatraz and threaten to launch a chemical strike on San Francisco, the FBI calls upon the one man who successfully escaped the prison to lead a group of Navy SEALs back in. The film has an outstanding cast that includes Nicolas Cage, Sean Connery, Ed Harris, Michael Biehn, and Tony Todd, who all deliver great performances. And, Michael Bay does a fantastic job at crafting intense, exciting action scenes that draw the audience into the film. Additionally, the score brilliantly complements the electrifying and fast-paced action. The Rock is a great action film that comes together to deliver a wildly entertaining adventure.
Heat is a brilliantly crafted crime film from writer/director Michael Mann. When a group of professional bank robbers are pursued by a relentless police detective they’re forced to choose between risking it all for one last score or having to walk away with nothing. Full of rich, interesting characters, the script is extraordinarily well-written and is able to interweave several subplots seamlessly. The film also features outstanding performances form an all-star cast that includes Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Val Kilmer, Tom Sizemore, Natalie Portman, Danny Trejo, and Amy Brenneman. And Mann’s directing is phenomenal; as exemplified by the iconic bank shootout sequence, which is incredibly intense and dynamic. Stylized and thrilling, Heat is a compelling and sophisticated crime drama.
An incredibly powerful World War II epic, Downfall is a German war drama about the final days of the Third Reich. Partially based on the biography of Traudl Junge (Adolf Hitler's personal secretary), the story follows the events of the Battle of Berlin as the Russian Army lays seize and Hitler and the Nazi high command face inevitable defeat. The performances are also especially good; particularly Bruno Ganz, who gives an exceptionally compelling and humanizing depiction of Hitler. And, the directing of Oliver Hirschbiegel adds an extraordinary level of realism that's quite engrossing. Downfall presents a fascinating historical look into the Nazi regime, and at how they chose to face their defeat at the end of the war.
“It’s all in the reflexes.” Big Trouble in Little China is a hilarious action-comedy from writer/director John Carpenter. The story follows cocky, loud mouth truck driver Jack Burton as he gets entangled in a world of Chinese mysticism and dark magic while trying to help a friend rescue his kidnapped fiancée. Kurt Russell leads the cast and delivers an outstanding performance that’s incredibly fun. And Carpenter does a masterful job at slowly drawing the audience into a fantasy world and filling it with rich and colorful characters. Additionally, the score (co-written by Carpenter) is especially well done; perfectly capturing the eerie and mystical tone of the film. Mixing satire with fantasy and action, Big Trouble in Little China is an immensely fun and entertaining cult comedy.
One of the best seasons of television ever produced, Season 1 of Battlestar Galactica presented a revolutionary new vision of science-fiction. The show follows the ragtag Colonial feet as they struggle to survive on the run from a race of synthetic robots called Cylons who destroyed their homeworlds and are intent on wiping out humanity. Starring Edward James Olmos, Mary McDonnell, Katee Sackhoff, James Callis, and Tricia Helfer, the cast is quite impressive and delivers some extraordinary performances. The storytelling is also incredibly well-done, constructing an over-arcing plot that’s told over 13 episodes; exemplifying the serial format. Avoiding the common tropes of the genre, the series does a remarkable job at staying character centric. And, creator Ronald Moore does an excellent job setting up a mythology and at bringing a sense of realism to the show. Additionally, there’s a significant spiritual aspect to the series and its exploration of humanity that’s rather unique and compelling. Provocative and edgy, Season 1 of Battlestar Galactica delivers a powerful space opera that’s full of action.
The Princess Bride is so incredibly charming and fun...it’s inconceivable! Based on the beloved novel, Princess Buttercup is kidnapped in a fiendish plot to provoke a war, but a mysterious Man in Black intercedes with designs of his own. The film has a wonderful cast that includes Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, and Peter Falk; who all give brilliant performances. And, director Rob Reiner does a magnificent job bringing this magical fantasy tale to life in a compelling and captivating way. Additionally, the score is masterfully done and provides an enchanting air. A beloved classic, The Princess Bride is full of action, adventure, comedy, and romance.
With Rocky IV the franchise fully embraces the cheesy action motif and does so brilliantly. When Soviet boxer Ivan Drago comes to America Apollo Creed challenges him to an exhibition match, but when it ends in tragedy Rocky must risk everything to avenge Creed. Dolph Lundgren gives an excellent performance as Drago; making him one on the most iconic villains of the franchise. And the slick, stylized montages (which have become a staple of the series) have never been done better. Watching the montage of Rocky and Drago training (set to “Heart’s On Fire”), it’s hard not to get fired up. Plus, the boxing scenes themselves are outstanding. Rocky verses the Russians was a natural place to take the series in the mid-80s, and Rocky IV stands as a quintessential Cold War ‘80s action film.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles is one of the greatest comedies of the ‘80s. Steve Martin and John Candy have incredible chemistry, making for one of the best comedy duos of the era. And, the misadventures of these two traveling from New York to Chicago are both relatable and hilariously absurd. But, beneath the hilarity is a tender and emotional story about friendship and family. Writer/director John Hughes has crafted a timeless classic in Planes, Trains and Automobiles, which continues to delight and entertaining audiences today.
Second seasons are notorious for surpassing their predecessor, and Dead Like Me is no exception. After an excellent first season, Dead Like Me takes it up a notch. With a solid foundation set, Dead Like Me extends itself by pushed the limits, and finding the endless possibilities of the show. Season two moved the series away from being about a girl named George who adjusts to life after death as a grim reaper, and instead becomes an ensemble show; following the struggles of all of the members of the grim reaper group that George belongs to, and explores the various stages of their afterlives. But even in the mist of all these heavy dramatic themes, the comedy remains as clever, witty, and hilarious as ever. Dead Like Me has an extraordinary quality and an ability to connect with people, giving them new perspectives on life, death, and the afterlife; and Season 2 sends the series out on a high note.
Director Oliver Stone delivers an inspirational tale of human triumph in his modern epic, World Trade Center. Based on true stories the film follows a Port Authority team that gets caught in the collapse of the World Trade Center towers during the 9/11 attacks. Nicolas Cage gives an outstanding performance (especially given that he spends most of the film buried in rubble), and is joined by a strong supporting cast that includes Michael Pena, Maria Bello, and Maggie Gyllenhaal. Additionally, Stone does an excellent job at covering the events of September 11th without being exploitative. However, the writing is a bit shaky and falls back on clichés a bit too often. Still, World Trade Center is a compelling and moving film about the 9/11 experience.
Fletch is a classic ‘80s comedy that’s outrageously fun and full of laughs. Chevy Chase stars as Irwin Fletcher, an investigative reporter whose exposé on L.A. drug smuggling takes a bizarre turn when he receives an unusual proposition from a wealthy businessman. The film is especially effective at using the type of SNL sketch comedy that Chase is so good at, and he gives a seminal performance that made Fletch into one of the most popular and beloved characters of his career. Additionally, the storytelling does an impressive job at building intrigue as Fletch’s investigation unfolds. Cleverly written and brilliantly executed, Fletch is a hilarious comedy that’s tremendously entertaining.
We Were Soldiers is a powerful and gritty war film from writer/director Randall Wallace. Based on a memoir, the story follows the Army's 7th Cavalry as they engage in the first major conflict between American and North Vietnamese forces. The writing is especially good, and does an excellent job at keeping track of the battle and at developing the characters. Featuring an all-star cast that includes Mel Gibson, Sam Elliott, Barry Pepper, Madeleine Stowe, and Keri Russell, the performances are quite impressive. And, Wallace does an outstanding job at capturing the brutality of war; giving a remarkably realistic depiction of combat conditions. Additionally, the score perfectly complements the film.
Toy Story 3 may be the best film of the series. In their final adventure Woody must rescue Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the gang from a tyrannical daycare center. Once again Pixar delivers another poignant story about the life of a toy, and an inspirational message about friendship and loyalty. Though some of the material is derivative of the first two films, it works without coming off as a rehash or stale. For a generation that has grown up with Pixar, the Toy Story characters have become old friends and watching this film feels like coming home again. Toy Story 3 is a wonderful film that will entertain audiences to infinity and beyond.
“Never give up, never surrender!” Galaxy Quest is an extraordinary sci-fi comedy that’s smart and funny. The story follows a group of washed up actors from the cult sci-fi television series Galaxy Quest, who are abducted by a race of aliens that have no concept of fiction and see the Galaxy Quest cast as real life heroes. Starring Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, and Sam Rockwell, the cast is quiet impressive; giving exceptional performances that balance the humor and the action. And the comedy itself especially good and does an excellent job at spoofing the sci-fi genre and its topes; brilliantly satirizes ‘60s science fiction television (such as Star Trek), as well as the culture of fandom. By Grabthar’s Hammer, Galaxy Quest is a hilariously entertaining adventure.
Things get personal for Columbo in the exciting thriller No Time to Die. When Columbo’s nephew comes to him for help after his bride is abducted on their wedding night, Columbo only has a few hours to find her before her captor kills her. The writers do an impressive job at breaking away from the series formula while still keeping most of the traditional characteristics of a Columbo style mystery. The storytelling’s also especially good; particularly at developing the characters and at building the plot. Additionally, the directing adds a lot of tension and suspense to the film. A well-crafted and intense crime drama, No Time to Die is an excellent entry into the Columbo series.
After ten years the Harry Potter series comes to an end in a spectacular and epic adventure in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2. Picking up exactly where Part 1 ended, the story continues as Harry and his friends return to Hogwarts to destroy the final horcruxes and made a last stand against Lord Voldemort and his army. The opening of the film is a bit awkward, but once it dives into the action it doesn’t let up. And the actors all bring their A-game, delivering some of their best performances. It all comes out in this final chapter; Harry Potter and Voldemort have their final battle, and all the mysterious are revealed. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 delivers a remarkable conclusion to one of the most ambitious film series ever made.
A cinematic masterpiece, Finding Nemo is an extraordinarily compelling film about the bonds of family and friendship. Featuring the voice talents of Albert Brooks, Ellen DeGeneres, Geoffrey Rush, and Willem Dafoe, the story follows a clownfish named Marlin who battles his way across the Pacific Ocean to save his son Nemo, who was abducted by a scuba diver. The script is especially well-written and delivers a good mixture of drama and comedy. Also, the animation is amazing, and is full of vivid details and vibrant colors. Wondrous and magical, Finding Nemo is a unique and touching film that elevates what computer animated films can be.
A Prairie Home Companion is a nostalgic love letter to old time variety radio. Directed by Robert Altman and written by Garrison Keillor, the film follows the last performance of the radio variety show A Prairie Home Companion as the staff struggles to deal with the show’s closing. The all-star cast features Kevin Kline, Tommy Lee Jones, Virginia Madsen, Woody Harrelson, and Lindsey Lohan; who all deliver wonderful performances that are engrossing and really bring the audience into the lives of these characters, as dose the story. Additionally, the music is exceptionally well-done; setting the perfect atmosphere for the variety show and embodying the feel of old time radio. Majestic and heartfelt, A Prairie Home Companion is a beautiful film that homages a lost part of Americana.
X2: X-Men United delivers a brilliant and exciting adventure, and is among the best of superhero films. Wolverine returns as the X-Men face a new threat, this time from Col. Stryker who’s planning to use Cerebro to kill the entire mutant population. The stellar cast gets even better with the additions of Brian Cox, Alan Cummings, and Kelly Hu, who all give strong performances. Director Byran Singer’s craft improves, as he gives this sequel a more epic story with grander action sequences. Delivering a strong, compelling drama and a high energy action-adventure, X2: X-Men United takes everything to the next level. In short, it’s X-cellent.
The most explosive and action-packed film of the series, Live Free or Die Hard is a nonstop high-adrenaline adventure. This time John McClane gets caught-up in a cyber-terrorist attack against America’s infrastructure, and things get personal when the terrorists kidnap his daughter. The storytelling is pretty good and is quite timely in its dealing with modern terrorism. Additionally, the villains (played exceptionally well by Timothy Olyphant and Maggie Q) are compelling and dynamic. And while there are some weak special effects and script issues, the high-energy chase scenes and intense fight sequences keep the film exciting and engaging. Live Free or Die Hard is a riveting, thrill-a-minute action film that’s incredible entertaining...Yippee-Ki-Yay, Motherf*****!
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is an epic fantasy adventure based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s literary classic. Bilbo Baggins’ tale continues as his company attempts to navigate the dangers of Mirkwood Forrest and sneak into Lonely Mountain. The storytelling is especially good, and is able to interweave several subplots. Additionally, the ensemble cast is quite impressive, and includes particularly strong performances from Evangeline Lilly and Orlando Bloom. The action sequences are also extraordinarily well-done, featuring incredibly dynamic and exciting fights and chases. Though it takes a few liberties with Tolkien’s original story, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug delivers a compelling tale of action and adventure.
The Coen brothers bring a bold new vision to the classic western True Grit. The story follows a young girl who hires a U.S. marshal to track down a fugitive named Tom Chaney who murdered her father in cold blood. The writing is phenomenal, particularly the dialog; which has a typical Coen brothers flare to it. Jeff Bridges gives an outstanding performance as U.S. Marshal Rooster Cogburn; creating a remarkably compelling and charismatic character. And, supporting cast members Hailee Steinfeld and Matt Damon also give strong performances. Additionally, the directing does an impressive job at giving an authentic look and feel for the Old West. Brilliantly crafted, True Grit is a thrilling film with an extraordinary tale of valor.
Gone in 60 Seconds delivers an intense, high-adrenaline ride that’s full of thrills and excitement. The film follows Memphis Raines, an ex-car thief that must put together a crew to pull off one last job in order to save his younger brother from a crime boss. Nicolas Cage, Angelina Jolie, Giovanni Ribisi, Delroy Lindo, and Timothy Olyphant lead an all-star cast that has great chemistry together and gives strong performances. Additionally, the story is well-written and fairly clever in the planning and execution of the heist. Packed with riveting car chases and fun characters, Gone in 60 Seconds is immensely entertaining.
From Walt Disney Animation comes the hilarious family comedy Bolt. After being separated from his co-star/owner, a dog named Bolt (who’s been tricked into believing that his television series is real) embarks upon a journey to find her; but the real world proves to be full of dangers and perilous unlike anything that he’s ever had to face before. The voice casting is especially good, and the characters are incredibly fun and entertaining. Additionally, the animation is extraordinarily vivid and colorful, creating a rich, textured look for the film. And, the comedy is especially funny, particularly the satire. Bolt is an amazing film that proves that Walt Disney Animation still has the magic.
Casino is a brilliant cinematic masterpiece from writer/director Martin Scorsese. The story follows two childhood friends who are sent to Las Vegas by the mob to oversee their casino operations, but the glitz and glamour turn the once close friends into bitter rivals. With an all-start cast that includes Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, Sharon Stone, and James Woods, the performances are excellent; especial De Niro and Pesci, who are in top form. And the writing does an impressive job at creating rich, interesting characters, and at explaining how the casino scram worked. Additionally, the set designs and costumes do an incredible job at showing the extravagance and decadency of ‘70s Las Vegas. Scorsese’s directing is also extraordinary; bringing life and vision to the film. A tragic tale of ambition gone awry, Casino is a compelling film that’s exceptionally well-crafted.
