Good Movies of 2013 - Part 2

World War Z

Rumors about the quality of this film ran rampant months before its release:  it was too long, there were reshoots, the zombies looked bad, it was PG-13.  Norm MacDonald would have called it "box-office poison."

This made me sad.  After a viewing of "Dead Snow," I attended a conversation with Max Brooks, the author of "World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War" on which the film would be based.  His talk was straight and funny -after all, he is the son of American comedic royalty.  I had read the book and loved its Studs Terkel influenced historical take on a long, fictitious war with the dead.  It was graphic, tense and it trotted the globe.

"World War Z" cuts out a lot of the book.  It had to.  There's no way it could do justice to its source material in less than three hours.  It turned out fine.  The film focuses on human survival and gore is kept to a minimum.  I especially liked the take on the "swarm" mentality of the undead and the clever nod to insect behavior.  Satirical?  Surely.  After Romero, many zombie movies are.

Despite a tidy ending, the movie turned a healthy profit and a sequel has already been given the green light.  Since "The Walking Dead" has become boring and schmaltzy, we can only hope HBO gives this a chance and revisits the novel for a mini-series.  As they continue to prove, they can do things right.


Enough Said

There are movies like "The Station Agent" and "You Can Count On Me" that catch me off guard.  Films that show a slice of common life; ones that are funny and sad and moving.

"Enough Said" is no exception.

James Gandolfini and Julia Louis-Dreyfus play two lonely divorcees who eventually look past each others flaws and begin to fall in love.  There is a semi-twist to the story, but the thing that stands out most is the acting.  It feels natural and has some funny moments.  The emotions are genuine, reactions are real.  It is easy to be drawn into the story because all of us can relate.

I wonder if I would have had the same feelings had Gandolfini not died.  I believe my thoughts on the film would not have changed (although it brings a bit of gravity to watching the film).  His size, his meter, his look always made him seem common.  His acting never felt forced and was regularly brilliant - for examples, see "Get Shorty" or "In The Loop."  It's easy to remember him as the overbearing Tony Soprano, but his best work was when he was subdued.  "Enough Said" is no exception.

He will be missed.

The Act of Killing

As we all grow older, we will remember earlier experiences with fondness and zeal.   Maybe we are remembering parties in college, vacations to warm locales or birthday parties at a local pizzeria.  Some of us may even recall leading death squads decades earlier and then reenacting the massacres as colorful, staged productions.

Bizzare?  Yes.   True?  Also, yes.

"The Act of Killing" gives stage to Indonesian men who led squads that killed thousands of their own people.  Many of them recount their actions with excitement and pride.  It is truly frightening.

Is the film asking these men to accept their guilt and repent?  Or is it holding the rest of the world accountable for not doing everything it could to prevent such tragedies from happening?

A Hijacking

Similar to "Captain Phillips," "A Hijacking" puts viewers on a cargo ship during negotiations with Somali pirates.  It's tense, greasy and claustrophobic.

The sailors and captors are tough and rugged, and both want to get home to their families.  As they days drag on, they build relationships with their captors and oddly grow close to each other in a perilous situation.

Some of the most interesting scenes of the film are the negotiations between the cargo ship company and the pirates.   What are human lives worth to a company?  How much is too much?  It presents an interesting dynamic and questions what corporations value most.

I believe that "Captain Phillips" is a better movie, but not by much.  While we know the ending to "Captain Phillips," the same can't be said about "A Hijacking."  It won't be one that you will ever forget.

Only God Forgives

Technically, this film is amazing.  Awash in glows of neon, it takes us through the seedy underground of Bangkok.  After her son is killed, a mother forces her other son to track down the killer and take revenge for the family.  It's dark and gritty and interesting.

I was not as a big a fan of "Drive" as most others, but I respected Nicolas Refn's direction for its nod to Michael Mann.  There is much of that same style in "Only God Forgives."

The movie is brutal and, at times, crawls.  At times Shakespeare, at times the life of Christ, the story lets Ryan Gosling quietly brood his way through the mystery.  Vithaya Pansringarm plays a retired cop who must also serve justice, a role that is bizarre and frightening.

The movie is at times slow and difficult to follow, but it is also visual and violent.

Good Movies of 2013 - Part 1

The following is a list of films from 2013 that I enjoyed (some may be from earlier, but I saw them in 2013) .   It is a good list to keep near your PC when you are adding movies to your Netflix queue.  Another tip is to keep an eye on Instant Watcher.  They do a nice job of posting when movies are added to the Netflix library.


The Past

I have yet to see Asghar Farhadi's "A Separation," but I have read nothing but excellent things about it.  "The Past" is a look into the lives of those affected when a man leaves his wife and child.  Returning to complete a divorce, he is confronted with his wife's new relationship, the impact on his child and the complexities that surround all of their lives.  The best intentions, it seems, only complicate.

The acting is top-notch, especially from Berenice Bejo who also shined in "The Artist."

Mystery also enters the story, one I found a bit distracting while watching, but one that also makes for a much-discussed ending.

Not an easy film to watch, but one that will resonate long after it is over.  Farhadi's work is complex and intruiging.  I'm looking forward to his next movies - and looking forward to watching "A Separation."


Gravity

I am not a fan of 3D.  Personally, I feel it is a distraction and is completely unnecessary in movie making.  Many advance reviews of "Gravity" made a point to tell readers that it was necessary to see this movie in 3D.  And while the 3D was better than most movies I've seen in 3D, I'm still not convinced any film needs it or that it is necessary to spend the extra money to see a movie in 3D.

That being said, "Gravity" was an incredible cinematic experience (one I believe would be greatly enhanced by IMAX).  The computer generated shots of space are beautiful and they add to the tension and hopelessness of the situation Sandra Bullock and George Clooney are in (there is one other astronaut who quickly becomes space food).

I have been a big fan of Alfonso Cuaron's "Children of Men" and its incredible tracking scenes that often go for minutes without an edit.  His direction in "Gravity" is impressive and he deserves to win the Oscar for best director for his work in "Gravity."

The story (co-written by Cuaron's son) gets a bit thin and Sandra Bullock's character and acting become annoying, but I loved the ending and its symbolism.



The Hunt

What would you do if your best friend was accused of sexually assaulting one of his students?  Would you support him as the entire town turns against him?  What would you do if it was your daughter?  What if you begin to doubt your daughter?

Americans will recognize Mads Mikkelsen as the newest incarnation of Hannibal Lecter on NBC's "Hannibal."  In "The Hunt," he plays a character viewers can empathize with - and as the story reveals his guilt or innocence, the viewer can also understand the perspective of the confused citizens of a town turned on its side.  His performance is certainly Oscar worthy

This is not a comfortable film and will challenge viewers.  The ending is also a bit convenient.  However, the story and the acting are strong and "The Hunt" is yet another 2013 film that will haunt viewers long after viewing.  "The Hunt" has been nominated for a 2014 Oscar for Best Foreign Movie.

Most Overrated Films of 2013

As promised, I have resurrected this blog.  For now, I'll use it to focus on film.  During the normal course of a year, I average about 146 movies.  It's my intention to guide you to films that are great, steer you away from those that are not, and to expand your viewing horizons with some surprises.  I hope you enjoy reading this.

Today's post is about the movies from 2013 I found most disappointing.  A few of these are critical darlings. Others are movies that fell short of the high expectations I had for them.

Let's start!

American Hustle

I always walk away from David O. Russell films disappointed.  "Three Kings" felt ridiculous and "Silver Linings Playbook" had me begging for the end within the first 45 minutes - the final dance and kiss scene felt completely forced.  "American Hustle" is no exception.  Russell now has his stable of regular actors, a middle-age brat pack.  While their performances are fine, it's the story that really brings the film down.  It's confusing, it's long and it's just plain boring.  Not even a surprise visit from a favorite gangster can help.

I like Amy Adams, but what's with the disappearing/reappearing British accent (even when it wasn't supposed to)?  Jennifer Lawrence is clearly someone to watch - she's captivating when she's on screen (I've been a fan since "Winter's Bone"), but in this case, I don't believe the Oscar accolades are justified.  All of the big names seem to overplay their characters, nearly winking at the camera.  A big rule in comedy is to not break the fourth wall and laugh at your own joke.   Many times throughout the film this seems to happen.

Overall, this feels like a poor tribute to Martin Scorsese films - made even worse by the fact Scorsese released a film at the same time that is far better.

The Butler

If you dare, go back and watch "Forrest Gump."  I recall seeing it in the theater, walking out and thinking that I just saw a masterpiece.  It, of course, went on to win best picture.  A few years back, I watched it again and to my dismay found it to be schmaltzy and silly.  Convenient and corny, it wasn't what I remembered - this was clearly a film that didn't age well.

The same can be said about "The Butler."  The story, full of cinematic cliche, wraps up 50 years of presidential and civil rights history in two hours.   The story could have been more powerful if it focused on the relationship between the butler and the president or if it focused on the story between the butler and the trials of his family.  Instead, it paints a rosy and perfect picture by the numbers.

Don Jon

The trailer had so much promise.  It was funny and it showed the return of Tony Danza in a role that looked to be a bit risque.  Turned out, it wasn't that funny and the story was pretty middle-of-the-road.   In fact, the story is just plain sad.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt wrote and directed this film.  In an interview with Howard Stern, he talked about influences and how long it took him to get this movie made.   There's no doubt he's talented and this is likely the beginning of a very prosperous career in screenwriting and directing.  In concept, this story seems like a good idea but like "American Hustle," it drags on too long.

I am curious to see what is next for Gordon-Levitt (an career arch I hope is similar to Ben Affleck).  In the meantime, check out the little seen "(500) Days of Summer."  You won't be disappointed.

Spring Breakers

Mix Dante's "Inferno" with dub-step techno and the flavor of the day.  Box-office gold, right?

Wrong.

This movie wants to be "Bonnie and Clyde" in bikinis.  What it really turns out to be is annoying story about a bunch of spoiled, want-to-be-thug teenagers who rob and murder their way to fun and excitement.  The only way this movie could have been worse is if there was a song on the soundtrack by Selena Gomez.

Don't believe the hype, skip this.

Early Games

Ugh.

Another 11am football game. These suck.

Don't get me wrong, I enjoy going to the games, but the start times blow. Especially when attending them in person.

This might have been cool back in the days when almost everyone was a farmer. By 11am, you had been up for 8 hours and into the meat of your day.

But now. Bullshit.

I'm not thinking greedily. The occasional 6pm or 8pm start time is appreciated - by both liver and wallet (i.e. 9/5/09). I'm specifically thinking a few weeks ahead to October 17 - homecoming. From what I am told, I will be joined by Hans and Travis (last names removed to protect the non-innocent). I know if they come into town, there will definitely be pre-celebration the evening before the game. And once the train starts, it rarely comes to a full stop by 3am. Choo, choo, motherfuckers.

All of this makes for a painful ride early the next AM.

Back in the day, it was no problem. In fact, 2 or 3 hours of sleep on a nice, comfortable floor was the norm. Up with the crack of AC/DC, beer with your Cheerios (or whatever type of pizza/Okie-Dokie was left from the night before). Great times.

I am looking forward to reuniting with my old UW pals - it'll be great to hang out with them and the usual Saturday football crew. There will be shenanigans of the highest quality. I can't wait.

Listen to me bitch. It can only mean one thing - we're getting old.

Older? Yes.

Grown up? Never.

Bring on the 2:30 starts!

Old No. 1

Let me begin by apologizing for my lack of blog these past few days. I'm sure all four of my loyal readers were sad. Alas, I'm back.

During my normal fit of insomnia, I began watching a news special on the state of the pornography business in the modern era. It was interesting enough and the lady interviewer smiled and nodded her head as she asked vanilla questions. Nothing Earth-shattering, but a neat little way to try coax oneself to sleep.

One part in particular caught my attention. It was the legal plight of Max Hardcore, aka Paul Little, aka Racine's #1 son (thank you Wikipedia). Too spare specific details for my more squeamish readers (if you really want to know, Google it - you have been warned), Mr. Little was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison on 10 counts of violating federal obscenity laws (based on a tiered "litmus test", established by a 1973 court case, that determines if something is "obscene" or not).

I have seen what Mr. Little does. It is NOT my cup of tea and I would neither actively seek out his work nor would I pay for it. I do, however, feel that Mr. Little has been railroaded by a law that is unjust (can we really determine what people find acceptable over time - especially using laws that are 30 years old) and a policital system that was Hell-bent on imposing its religious morality on everyone and everything (this was executed during the Bush/Ashcroft administration).

It frightens me to think we have allowed the government to tell us what we can and cannot see, read or watch. There is no doubt this cannot be allowed - a slippery slope of the steepest kind.

As I tossed and turned, all of this got me to thinking about an article I had read earlier this past weekend. The Associate Press published a picture of a Marine in Afghanistan who was mortally wounded in a mortar attack. There was criticism and support of the AP's decision to run the picture.

Because of my appreciation for the 1st amdendment and my previous association with the Marine Corps, I was unsure of what my position was on this until I saw the picture. It was horrible - it is also a picture I will never forget.

I want people to see this - it made me question the value of war and the value of one heroic life. If one picture is making me question my standing on issues, then surely it will do the same for others. Isn't this the catalyst for change?

In this age of instant news and light-speed Internet, these types of things are always going to be available - it is up to you to make the decision if you want to see them or not. This is they way it should always be. Our ability to say, read and see what we want, when we want is paramount to our existence as Americans.

Both of these cases are rooted in our fundamental rights. They aren't easy decisions, but they are equally important.

If anything, it all allows us to easily be able to see Erin Andrews naked. Even if it was a plant.

Case closed.

So tired.

What's the weirdest place you've fallen asleep?

I have worked at my current wonderful job for just over two years. Those who know me have heard me shower nothing but praises on it. I am amazed how much I have grown professionally and how much closer I am to realizing my professional dreams. I am so glad I went to college and am really making a difference in the world. [/sarcasm]

I digress.

When I have to do my best work at, well, work, I usually retreat to the shitter that is near the company gym. It's a little more off the beaten path.

I would go to the bathroom that is closer to my work area, but it proves to me that I work with a group of 7-year-olds that enjoy pissing and shitting everywhere. I mean, really, if this is how disgusting they are in public bathrooms, can you imagine what their homes look like?

I usually make my way into the john to catch up on the daily news and sports on my Brownberry. Haha, me clever. On more than one-half-dozen occasions, whilst feeling my morning or afternoon glory, I have heard someone sleeping in one of the other shitboxes. Full out mouth breathing (which initally made me think someone was "checking the power") and loudly snoring. That, my fine friends, is talent.

To be able to zonk out in a room filled with thick, shit-smelling air is impressive. Balls that big could only be hanging in the toilet water.

Do I wait and see who it is? Do I rat out this turd (sorry, too easy)? One can only imagine that call to the company ethics officer.

Make no mistake, double/triple flushes were in order. Stall doors were slammed. Yet the snoring continued as I washed my hands (another topic that needs to be discussed - especially for those you know are hammering the deuce and then walk out without even making a fake attempt and turning on the faucet).

It's just plain nasty. I could understand possibly dozing off once - maybe it was a late night - but this has happened again and again.

Even I'm disgusted, and I have some great shitting stories.

The 7th Inning

At the risk of offending people, or being put on some type of FBI watch list (you can hear the reel-to-reel tapes already beginning to spin), I don't like what Bud Selig has done to baseball.

In actuality, it's not Selig that I despise, more so the fact he mandated that baseball play "God Bless America" during Sunday games. Can't we invoke some type of separation of church and state clause?

It's long, it's ancient and people don't know what to do during it. Do you remove your cap? Do you stand? Do you place your hand over your heart? After all, it's not our national anthem.

I understand that this all came about after 9/11. I get that - and we can thank the Yankees and their own version of Enrico Pallazzo for this (as if we need further reasons to hate them) . But I think enough time has passed where "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" and, in Milwaukee's case, "Roll Out the Barrell" (twice) is sufficient.

I believe that history will treat Selig's tenure in a positive light. He's done a great deal for baseball: attendance is up and inter-league play is cool. Revenues are high and we have moved beyond the horrible strike in 1994. It remains to be seen, but the steroid fiasco will blemish his legacy.

But I don't put all of the blame on old Bud. I put a lot of the blame the union. A very powerful one at that. And once everything comes to light, they will attempt to take zero responsibility for it.

Much like our friends up in Fond du Lac at Mercury Marine.

Look here, geniuses: when someone sets a deadline, especially when it is essentially a second chance and your livelihoods are on the line, you better get to the station on time. Better yet, be a couple hours early, wrap it in nice paper and put a pretty little bow on top.

Playing chicken during a recession is one of the most idiotic moves I have ever witnessed. But it's typical of union thinking. Guess what. You lost. You have nobody to blame but yourselves and your greed. Businesses have to do what they have to do to survive - people everywhere are taking cuts in order to keep their jobs. If you haven't figured it out yet, there aren't a lot of people buying boats these days.

One of the stewards was interviewed on the news last night. He was saying that it was all the fault of the management, that they weren't willing to negotiate and that they weren't living up to their promises. It's that kind of thinking that is going to destroy your lives and your community.

Someone said that under the proposed contract, they would make more working at McDonald's. Best of luck with that.

Don't forget to hold the pickles.