Sunday, June 29, 2008

The Darjeeling LImited (2007)



Directed by: Wes Anderson
Format: DVD
DVD Features: trailer, featurette, other trailers
Starring: Adrien Brody, Jason Schwartzman, Owen Wilson, Angelica Huston
Trailer

India. It's a country I've never been to, but have long wanted to visit. When I was quite young, I saw The Little Princess, starring Shirley Temple. Even though the movie takes place in Africa, it occurs during the British occupation of that country and Sara Crewe (Temple) has an Indian servant (The British occupied that country as well). Although her young servant has a small role in the film, that is when my interest in the far away land was first roused. Since then, I've read a few wonderful novels (The God of Small Things by Anrundhati Roy and The Moor's Last Sigh by Salmon Rushdie) that have kept the mistuque of India alive in my imagination. In Wes Anderson's latest film, The Darjeeling Limited, the beauty of this country is once again brought to life.

Three brothers, Francis, Peter and Jack Whitman have not spoken in a year. The eldest, Francis, has decided that the three of them need to take a spiritual journey; to reconnect and to visit their estranged mother. They rondevous aboard a train in India, The Darjeeling Limited, and travel across the country together. Along the way, Francis' carefully laid plans go awry, their mother sends word that they're unwelcome and a poisonous snake gets them kicked off the train. Aside from their immediate troubles, each man has unresolved issues of their own.

The visual appeal of this film lies primarily in the set design. The train itself is a work of art and filming aboard a moving locomotive presents challenges of its own. Like most of Wes Anderson's other works, The Darjeeling Limited feels almost like a play insofar as the set is concerned. Unlike The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, there are no fantastic creatures aboard.

Although I was terribly disappointed in Jason Schwartzman as Louis XVI (Marie Anoinette), he has been in most, if not all, of the Wes Anderson movies. So, it's not surprising to find him in the cast of this one. He seems well suited to the director's needs and performs wonderfully in The Darjeeling Limited. He's grown up quite a bit from Rushmore. A new addition to Anderson's usual crew is Adrien Brody. Let's forget for a moment that I completely adore the actor on every level. He's so exciting just to look at! As an addition to the cast, he fits in very smoothly and blends in perfectly amongst Anderson's other creations. I hope to see him again in the director's next project. Owen Wilson, although another regular in Anderson's films, doesn't seem to mesh as well as the other two. He's a bit too overpowering as Francis. Even though the character is a strong one, Wilson is slightly over the top in his performance. Another pair of regulars, Bill Murray and Angelica Huston, appear in The Darjeeling Limited, but not in leading roles. I think that it was a wise descision on the casting director's part, as it avoids making each film too similar while still appeasing the fans.

As if it wasn't apparent by my peppering of his name throughout this review, I am a fan of Wes Anderson's films. I love the whimsical nature of them and their non-linear plots. It's nice not to be tied down to an agenda as so many other movies seem to be. But although The Darjeeling Limited isn't a predictable story, the primary sentiment still comes through. The plot meanders from Francis' well-intended choreography, but the three brothers accomplish their goal in the end. The movie is serious, without being depressing and funny without being rediculous. The exotic setting, the quirky characters and the subtle oddities make The Darjeeling Limited another fantastic addition to the director's filmography. As a side note, I don't usually get excited about the featurettes included on many DVDs. However, I do recommend viewing the extra feature on this one. There are elements of the set design that shouldn't go unappreciated, that one might never notice without watching the behind the scenes footage.

Now, I think I'll go watch it again, before I have to return it!

Overall rating: 5 stars
Hottie rating: 5 stars (4 for Brodie, 1 for Schwartzman)

Alternate Recommendation: The Royal Tenenbaums
Official Site
IMDB Site
Salon.com review (minute spoilers)

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Monday, June 23, 2008

The Strangers (2008)



Directed by: Bryan Bertino
Format: Theater
Starring: Scott Speedman, Liv Tyler, Gemma Ward, Kip Weeks, Laura Margolis

There are different brands of terror. One horror movie might thrill you because the events are realistic. Another may be full of ghosts and the supernatural, making you wonder what's out there in the shadows. Do you sleep with the lights on? Are you looking over your shoulder? Sometimes horror films aren't even terribly frightening, aside from the occasional start or gallons of gore. So, why is it that people seek out the frightening side of film? Despite my experiences with real-life terror, I'm still a horror film junkie. Why? For me, it's akin to the thrill of riding a roller coaster or the desire to sky-dive. I seek that rush of adrenaline with every theater ticket. But, I sit there, heart pumping, knowing that I'm not in any actual peril. Oh, and don't forget gore...lots and lots of gore....

In The Strangers, James Hoyt (Speedman) and Kristen McKay (Tayler) are staying the night at the Hoyt's family cabin. It's less than a relaxing getaway for the young couple, however, as instead of celebrating their engagement, they're awkwardly trying to reconcile after Hoyt's proposal falls flat. In the middle of their reconciliation, there's a strange knock at the door. A young woman stands outside, asking for someone. They send her away, telling her she's got the wrong address. After James leaves to buy a pack of smokes, Kristen is alone in the house and hears the knock again. Even though she's clever enough not to open the door, someone sneaks in the house while her back is turned. James returns and finds an hysterical Kristen, claiming that there's an intruder and people lurking outside. At first he tries to tell her she's imagining things, but when he finds his car demolished, he realizes they're in real trouble.

There isn't anything hokey or bizarre about The Strangers. Having been "inspired by true events", the plot is a realistic one. Special effects extend only to blood and injury, not amazing CGI ghouls and ghosts. At the beginning of the movie, two missionary boys happen upon the scene of the crime and it's obvious that something terrible has happened. So, no surprises there. Despite being forewarned of the ending though, you can't help but wonder if the couple makes it out alive. In theory, you should be in for a gripping story and all the more so because of its roots in reality.

Liv Tayler is not someone I would have expected to see in this film. However, she pulls off the role quite nicely. She remains terrified, but still competent. Tayler is very convincing. Speedman is passable as the rejected propositioner and is believeable as a frightened, but protective boyfriend. The other actors do a good job holding up their end of the script, but don't have very involved roles. It's Tayler and Speedman carrying the show.

I have to say that, although the trailer gave me chills, The Strangers was lacking something special. I'd like to be able to pinpoint that absent aspect, but I can't quite seem to put my finger on it. The movie had the makings of a truly terrifying 90 minutes, but didn't pull it off. There are a few brief scares, but they fall into the relm of the predicatable. When Hoyt's friend arrives on the scene, it's all to easy to guess what's going to happen. An eerieness is missing. There was more tension in the plot before the indruders even made an appearance and all of the truly creepy scenes are already included in the advertisements. Even the blood looks fake.

Another thing I noticed in The Strangers, were inconsistencies. Honestly speaking, I don't normally pick up on the little mistakes in movies until after a second or third viewing. But in this movie, I did. Firstly, there's the scene with Liv in the kitchen. She's smoking a cigarette and senses danger. So, she turns around and - viola! - disappearing cigarette. No smoke, no ashes, nothing. Secondly, at one point, a character is bound at the wrists (you'll see this in the trailer). In a following scene, no cuts or marks appear where they should be. How many people viewed this film prior to release and didn't catch those things?

So, to sum up, I was very disappointed by my experience with The Strangers. Looking back, I would have chosen any of the other options in theaters right now. Kung-Fu Panda would have been more worth my time. Unless you're exceedingly curious (even after my review), I don't recommend the rental either. Sometimes it's true what they say - your imagination is scarier than the real thing.

Overall Rating: 2 stars
Hottie Rating: 1 star (That's all you get, Speedman)

Alternate Recommendation: Straw Dogs
Official Site
IMDB Page
Appreciating Great Trash review

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Wednesday, June 18, 2008

The Cat Returns (2002)



a.k.a. Neko No Ongaeshi (Japanese)

Directed by
: Hiroyuki Morita
Format: DVD
DVD Features:
Starring (voices): Chizuru Ikewaki, Yoshihiko Hakamada, Tetsu Watanabe, Takayuki Yamada
Trailer

For several years during my adolescence, I was fully devoted to Anime (ah-nee-meh), or Japanese Animation. My obsession started with Otomo's Akira and, back then, there wasn't any other way to view it aside from third-generation VHS copies, in the original language and sans subtitles. So, for a while, I'd sit in a church basement with my fellow Otaku and make fourth-generation copies. Ah...nostalgia. These days, we have things like DVDs and the internet. So, coming from the perspective of having been into the genre during that period of my life, watching anime seems a bit juvenile to me now. From time to time though, I like to revisit the land of Shojo and Hentai (okay, maybe not-so-much the Hentai) and recall just how magical it can be.

The Cat Returns is about an average teenaged girl named Haru (Ikewaki). One day, on her way home from school, she saves a cat from being flattened in the street. She's shocked when the feline stands up on his hind legs, brushes himself off and speaks a thank you to her. That night, she witnesses a bizarre procession of cats who stop in front of her door to announce that the fortunate creature she saved earlier that day is the prince of the cat kingdom! The following morning, Haru is treated to an overflow of gifts that would be perfect for any housecat, but a little disturbing for a young girl; catnip, boxes of mice, and the prince's hand in marriage! Not excited about the prospect of marrying outside her species, she seeks help from Baron (Hakamada) and Muta (Watanabe) who come to her rescue.

The characters in The Cat Returns are certainly adorable, if you're a cat person. Baron is a debonair toy cat who's come to life. He has a large, living raven statue for a friend and a rather scrappy, fat companion cat named Muta. The two of them are consistently trading insults! Yuki is a pretty little maid cat who also lends a paw to Haru's cause. When they're in their element, all of the kitties trot around on their hind legs, wearing clothes. Some of my favorite side characters are the king's bodyguards - tuxedo-colored cats who kick the neighborhood strays out of the way. Not all of the cats in this story are the same though, and I couldn't figure out why. It appears that some cats are gifted with human speech and mannerisms, while others are just normal cats. I couldn't really sympathize with Haru at all though. It seems like a delightful gift to be able to live as a cat and she's hardly appreciative of the Cat Kingdom's efforts to find suitable presents for her.

This film is a directorial debut for Hiroyuki Morita, though he's worked as animator on familiar titles like Gunsmith Cats and Tenchi Muyo. The movie reminded me a great deal of Hayao Miyazaki's work (My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke), but without his focus on environmental issues and sweeping drama. The Cat Returns does have a nice moral though, which is "believe in yourself". The animation is smooth and not heavily reliant on CGI. The character design is not overly "bug-eyed" or astoundingly odd.

Although by no means is all Anime suitable for children, The Cat Returns is an all-ages adventure. The tale moves along fairly quickly and, except for a few small quirks, is easy to follow. There are no giant robots or magical transformations. So, be aware, if your taste in film runs toward mechs or sailor-girls. If you've enjoyed films like the Miyazaki works mentioned above, you won't be disappointed with this one.

*A note on language: Regardless of what language a movie happens to be filmed in, I have made it a rule to be appreciative of the original actors. As such, whenever possible, I view the subtitled version. I'm also a bit leery of the translations in some instances and it's nice to have the authentic soundtrack available. All movies reviewed on this site were viewed with their original audio track.*

Overall Rating: 3 stars
Hottie Rating: 0 stars

Alternate Recommendation: My Neighbor Totoro (a.k.a. Tonari No Totoro)
Official Site (Disney)
IMDB Page
FilmAsia review

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The Notorious Bettie Page (2005)



Directed by: Mary Harron
Format: DVD
DVD Features:
Starring: Gretchen Mol, Lili Taylor, Chris Bauer, Jared Harris

I’m always surprised when I meet someone who doesn’t know who Bettie Page was. In my mind, it’s like not knowing who Marilyn Monroe or Jim Morrison were. Bettie was a pin-up girl and fetish model during the late 1940’s and early 1950’s. She was never photographed having intercourse or in any scenes with men, so by today’s standards, she might not qualify as a “porn star”. During that era, full-frontal nudity could get a cameraman in trouble. It’s interesting to see how society has changed with regards to the human form. Bettie’s also famous for her iconic cropped bangs and black hairstyle. Featured these days on everything from notebook covers to air fresheners, even tattoos, Bettie’s image is everywhere. Her resurgence in popularity is likely one reason that Mary Harron decided to make her Notorious film.

The Notorious Bettie Page is a look at the model’s life during her career in pin-up. In this film, we’re first introduced to Bettie (Mol) as she’s waiting to be called to testify at the Kefauver Hearings (hearings in the late 50’s to determine the effects of certain materials on Juvenile Delinquency). Following that, a few short scenes allow a glimpse into Bettie’s childhood and teen years. Around the time she begins college, the picture slows down again to summarize her marriage and subsequent divorce from Billy Neal (Norman Reedus). Then, while strolling down the beach in Coney Island, she meets Jerry Tibbs (Kevin Carroll), who asks to take her photograph. From that point forward, her career takes off. In-between scenes of her posing, the movie shares her struggles with acting and with relationships. When the story circles around to the trial again, it’s near the end of Bettie’s career and the beginning of her devotion to Christianity.

Most of Harron’s movie is shot in black and white. It’s an effective technique for lending The Notorious Bettie Page the overall feeling of an era gone by. The scenes in which the director chose to use color still convey the sensation of an old postcard or a Technicolor film. All of Page’s most famous shots are re-created, including her jungle poses with the jaguars (who almost upstage her) and the Playboy Christmas card.

Mol is a fairly good doppelganger for the real model, which is an essential piece of pulling off a convincing biography. She even nails the innocence and carefree attitude that the real woman was said to have. I kept getting the feeling she was being taken advantage of and yet, she doesn’t come off as being stupid. Aside from Mol, most of the acting was mediocre. I once thought that Lily Taylor was a pretty solid actress. I’ll never forget her in The Addiction. But, after seeing her fake her way through this movie and The Haunting, I’m not so sure. She reminds me of a teenager lying to her parents – not very convincing. By contrast, the man who plays Irving Klaw (Chris Bauer), her brother in the movie, is very believable. Only two more characters, Bunny Yeager (Sarah Paulson) and John Willie (Jared Harris) were even remotely entertaining.

As is probably a danger when recreating someone’s life onscreen, this biography of Bettie Page was rather dry. As a fan, I had been curiously awaiting the film’s release. I was hoping that the icon’s memory would be honored and that the filmmakers would not take too much liberty with her tale. In that regard, I wasn’t disappointed but The Notorious Bettie Page ends up being something of a snore. It works well as a study of the shifts in society since that era, which is interesting, but it’s almost like reading a text book. If you’re curious about the woman, the pin-up style or just like to see nude models, this film might be a good bet. Anyone looking for some excitement will be sorely disappointed.

Overall Rating: 2 ½
Hottie Rating: 3

Alternate Recommendation: I Shot Andy Warhol
Official Site
IMDB Page
Creative Loafing Review

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Friday, June 06, 2008

I'm a Domain-atrix!!

I've got an exciting announcement! Gummi Popcorn now has it's own domain name! What does this mean for you? Well, instead of remembering that Gummi Popcorn started out as Neko Movies, and typing that whole URL into your browser, you can just remember "GummiPopcorn.com"!! So, from now on, you can set your links up to point to www.gummipopcorn.com. Or-you can still use the longer blogspot URL. Your choice!