Annnnd I'm back after a long, long time away. Sorry nonexistent readers but I've been guilty of one of the greatest sins of blogging: procrastination. I give my word that this summer, I will update this thing on a semi-regular basis. Anyways, on to the review! (Of course, beware of the many spoilers I will put here)
Iron Man 2
There was a lot of good will going into this movie. Iron Man 1, though not the best superhero movie ever made, was one of the slickest. Tony Stark was, by far, one of the most rounded, well-thought out superhero film protagonists that I've seen in a long time. He felt like the bastard child of Jack Sparrow and Bruce Wayne. Now, just him alone would've made a great film, but his supporting cast was also terrific and the chemistry between him and them is what made that film.
The problem with Iron Man 2 is not that this chemistry is lacking. Far from it. In fact, that is one of the best parts of this film. The problem here lies more with the script. Sure, there are some great back-and-forths, some good character moments, and the action was, for the most part, great (thank you Taratovsky). What's lacking here is the threat and a firm narrative.
With every superhero film, there always has to be a threat to our hero and their loved ones to overcome. Either it is external and internal. Well, mostly external. Tony Stark is dying. That in itself is a great threat to have the film centered on. However, the problem here is with the external. The villains in this film are pretty weak.
If you would base Ivan Danko's threat based on his look, then you'd probably think that he was a pretty intimidating villain. In action, that's a different story. Once the heroes get their acts together, they swiftly eliminate him and any other threat he brings along with him. Justin Hammer, technically the film's other villain, works more as a comic foil than anyone that could be a legit competitor to Stark's empire. How this man and his company got his military contracts here are beyond me.
The only real villain to this piece is the palladium that's slowly killing Stark. The scenes where he's testing his blood toxicity level had more menace to them than most of the scenes with Danko and Hammer. Their joint competency was about as effective as the Iron Man suits being developed in North Korea and Iran during the Senate Hearing scene (yeah, referencing the movie within the movie review, blew your mind yet?).
The other problem I had was that, at times, there was just way too much going on. It didn't get to that point that it was Spider Man 3 redux but, on top of having this film, there was an entirely different film happening in the background. That film was called The Avengers Year 0. Yes, I love it that Marvel is finally putting together its universe but the scenes with Nick Fury felt so out of place in this film. It felt like the director was saying "You know, we need someone to introduce the Howard Stark thing to Tony...but we need to get people pumped for the Avengers movie coming out in a couple of years. Lets combine them!" Black Widow, though her action scenes were pretty amazing, her existence felt perfunctory. She was there to A) look sexy and B) show you how bad-ass that Avengers film all the Marvel films are talking about will be.
I'm not saying Iron Man 2 is a bad flick. It is well worth a gander this summer season. Personally, I'm just slightly disappointed with it because, as an unwritten law, the second superhero film is the best. If, perhaps, the Avengers or the third Iron Man turn out to be all sorts of fantastic, unlike every third superhero film, than I will forgive the film for its faults. Then again, that is a pretty steep hill to climb to make the third superhero film work. If any of you can name one good third installment in a superhero franchise, you will win the entirety of the lost city of Atlantis and free pass to explore Area 51.
Score: 7.5/10
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
The movie that will eat your soul
The 2009 blockbuster Precious, based upon the novel Push by Sapphire, started getting a lot of internet buzz way before its release. Its appeal lies mostly in how different it is: a sixteen-year-old, overweight (mer, obese) African American girl (Clareece “Precious” Jones, played by Gabourey Sidibe) living in poverty in 1980’s Harlem, while withstanding the relentless abuse from her mother. While expecting just a story of simple domestic abuse, the story explores many more dimensions and plot twists.
Its rawness, complemented by its deep melodramatic undertones and excellent cast performances, is where the film truly has its power. Within the first five or ten minutes, we see Mary (Mo’Nique) calling Precious a “big fat dummy” all because dinner was not made on time--and all of a sudden, a frying pan is tossed at the back of Precious’s head. The movie doesn’t bore the viewer by over-establishing exposition and background by aimlessly shooting the streets of Harlem (what I expected before I saw the movie); rather, a palpable conflict is immediately established by that one flying frying pan. The viewer is thrown into the action and is hooked for the rest of the movie.
The excellent story development continues from there. Precious is shown as relatable and, more important, lovable. By her first classroom appearance, the viewer knows she’s intelligent (her favorite subject is Math) and has an innocent crush on her teacher. She is established not just as a victim, but as a true teenager with desires and wishes. Precious eventually must be transferred to another school to get her GED due to her second pregnancy, under the direction of Blu Rain (Paula Patton)-—whom we later discover is a lesbian after she takes Precious into her home when she has no where else to go--and later, a social worker, Ms. White (Mariah Carey).
When she is called “fat” by a fellow troubled schoolmate in this special school, Precious slaps her. I loved seeing her slap the bitch around a little bit, showing the audience she isn't just some desperate, pathetic, and weak loser, the girl can fight back and flex some muscle! Despite this initial conflict, eventually all of the students bond and Precious slowly begins to improve her reading and writing skills. Things seem to be improving for Precious with her new-found friendships that she has never had before, which serve as an outlet for coping. Just when you think things will get better for good ol' lovable Precious, her life spirals out of control. As if it’s bad enough that she detests her appearance, her mother from Hell abuses her physically and mentally, her father repeatedly raped her and got her pregnant twice, later on in the film, it is unveiled that her father has died, due only to complications brought upon by HIV (and now she has it too).
Ms. Rain steps in to help Precious in her time of need after she (FINALLY) runs away from home when Mary throws her newly born infant on the floor. Precious’s bond to both her children (her first child is a mongoloid named “Mongol”) allows her to realize the danger that staying with her mother will bring upon them as a family. The film perfectly executes the believability of this decision of running away and answers the question why on that particular day does she decide to do so, which is indicative of excellent story and character development. Movies frequently struggle with climaxes and it is seems haphazard and mis-directed, but this is certainly not the case here. This scene is one of the most pivotal where Precious’s character undergoes great change: no longer will she allow herself to be a victim to her mother’s torments, even if she has no where else to go. The scene lends itself to being intentionally tedious, drawn out, and nerve-wrecking: one fears for Precious and her baby’s safety as she slowly climbs up the familiar staircase to her apartment, with her baby clenched close to her chest. Had Precious quickly entered Mary’s apartment, the scene would have lost a lot of its effect and brilliant foreshadowing.
The best parts of the film are Precious’s fantasies that are crushed by the harsh reality of her surroundings. The parallels and contrasts are phenomenal. Take for instance: her fantasies about her Math teacher complimenting her intelligence and owning a house with him in a ritzy area (I think it was in Westchester?), she sees herself as a celebrity donning a beautiful red gown and waving to her adoring fans while they lovingly call her name, and in yet another fantasy that is reminiscent of Toni Morrison’s novel The Bluest Eye, she glances into the mirror in her room seeing herself as she wishes she was, as a skinny blonde with blue eyes. Heart-breaking, I know.
Blu Rain, however, tells Precious that she is beautiful in her own skin-—both inside and out. Precious only comes to understand this after her turning point when she recognizes her own courage and runs away from home. It is only at this point that she is able to accept herself. Mary re-surfaces towards the ending of the film when she reaches out to Precious as a last resort in not wanting to die alone from HIV. Precious stands up for herself and says she has no desire to ever see or hear from her again, and frankly, you applaud her decision. Despite ending on a somewhat uplifting note in Precious wanting to be a good mother, as she skips along the Harlem streets after picking up her children from school, the bleakness of the film is still a prevalent force: we know death is inevitable for her.
It is a film that rivals the bleakness of the 1990’s film Requiem For a Dream. Whereas the tribulations of Ty, Harry and Marion are horrific and heart-wrenching as well, their world of suffering is one that they brought upon themselves with their own drug addictions, but in Precious, the sixteen-year-old is unfairly thrusted into that world of hardship through outside forces that she cannot control.
Brilliant. 9/10.
Its rawness, complemented by its deep melodramatic undertones and excellent cast performances, is where the film truly has its power. Within the first five or ten minutes, we see Mary (Mo’Nique) calling Precious a “big fat dummy” all because dinner was not made on time--and all of a sudden, a frying pan is tossed at the back of Precious’s head. The movie doesn’t bore the viewer by over-establishing exposition and background by aimlessly shooting the streets of Harlem (what I expected before I saw the movie); rather, a palpable conflict is immediately established by that one flying frying pan. The viewer is thrown into the action and is hooked for the rest of the movie.
The excellent story development continues from there. Precious is shown as relatable and, more important, lovable. By her first classroom appearance, the viewer knows she’s intelligent (her favorite subject is Math) and has an innocent crush on her teacher. She is established not just as a victim, but as a true teenager with desires and wishes. Precious eventually must be transferred to another school to get her GED due to her second pregnancy, under the direction of Blu Rain (Paula Patton)-—whom we later discover is a lesbian after she takes Precious into her home when she has no where else to go--and later, a social worker, Ms. White (Mariah Carey).
When she is called “fat” by a fellow troubled schoolmate in this special school, Precious slaps her. I loved seeing her slap the bitch around a little bit, showing the audience she isn't just some desperate, pathetic, and weak loser, the girl can fight back and flex some muscle! Despite this initial conflict, eventually all of the students bond and Precious slowly begins to improve her reading and writing skills. Things seem to be improving for Precious with her new-found friendships that she has never had before, which serve as an outlet for coping. Just when you think things will get better for good ol' lovable Precious, her life spirals out of control. As if it’s bad enough that she detests her appearance, her mother from Hell abuses her physically and mentally, her father repeatedly raped her and got her pregnant twice, later on in the film, it is unveiled that her father has died, due only to complications brought upon by HIV (and now she has it too).
Ms. Rain steps in to help Precious in her time of need after she (FINALLY) runs away from home when Mary throws her newly born infant on the floor. Precious’s bond to both her children (her first child is a mongoloid named “Mongol”) allows her to realize the danger that staying with her mother will bring upon them as a family. The film perfectly executes the believability of this decision of running away and answers the question why on that particular day does she decide to do so, which is indicative of excellent story and character development. Movies frequently struggle with climaxes and it is seems haphazard and mis-directed, but this is certainly not the case here. This scene is one of the most pivotal where Precious’s character undergoes great change: no longer will she allow herself to be a victim to her mother’s torments, even if she has no where else to go. The scene lends itself to being intentionally tedious, drawn out, and nerve-wrecking: one fears for Precious and her baby’s safety as she slowly climbs up the familiar staircase to her apartment, with her baby clenched close to her chest. Had Precious quickly entered Mary’s apartment, the scene would have lost a lot of its effect and brilliant foreshadowing.
The best parts of the film are Precious’s fantasies that are crushed by the harsh reality of her surroundings. The parallels and contrasts are phenomenal. Take for instance: her fantasies about her Math teacher complimenting her intelligence and owning a house with him in a ritzy area (I think it was in Westchester?), she sees herself as a celebrity donning a beautiful red gown and waving to her adoring fans while they lovingly call her name, and in yet another fantasy that is reminiscent of Toni Morrison’s novel The Bluest Eye, she glances into the mirror in her room seeing herself as she wishes she was, as a skinny blonde with blue eyes. Heart-breaking, I know.
Blu Rain, however, tells Precious that she is beautiful in her own skin-—both inside and out. Precious only comes to understand this after her turning point when she recognizes her own courage and runs away from home. It is only at this point that she is able to accept herself. Mary re-surfaces towards the ending of the film when she reaches out to Precious as a last resort in not wanting to die alone from HIV. Precious stands up for herself and says she has no desire to ever see or hear from her again, and frankly, you applaud her decision. Despite ending on a somewhat uplifting note in Precious wanting to be a good mother, as she skips along the Harlem streets after picking up her children from school, the bleakness of the film is still a prevalent force: we know death is inevitable for her.
It is a film that rivals the bleakness of the 1990’s film Requiem For a Dream. Whereas the tribulations of Ty, Harry and Marion are horrific and heart-wrenching as well, their world of suffering is one that they brought upon themselves with their own drug addictions, but in Precious, the sixteen-year-old is unfairly thrusted into that world of hardship through outside forces that she cannot control.
Brilliant. 9/10.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Restaurant Week or How I Stopped Worrying and Just Bloody Spent Money Already
To tell the truth, I have never done Restaurant Week. Sure, I've been in the city for 5 years but I haven't really done it because A) I couldn't get friends to come and B) it was too expensive for my budget (most likely a combination of A & B). Yes, it is still too expensive for my budget but there's something about this year that makes me to gloriously declare "What the hell". So far I have been to two restaurants which I will focus on later BUT I am currently scheduled to go to 5 of them. Each for a year I have been in NYC and not experienced Restaurant Week. There may be more later on but we shall see who's up for it and how far I can stretch my wallet. Anyhow, reviews! Deploy!
Sushi Samba
Andrea and I went to this after the many wonderful things that I heard from, well, Andrea of course. I got in late (stupid NYC traffic) but Andrea got there before me. I met her at the bar, while she was charmingly seducing older men. Luckily I was there to be a buzzkill and get on with our restaurant review. I knew I was in for a treat after I read the menu and our bubbly waitress was already giving recommendations.
After everyone ordered a drink, I thought I might as well join the party. I mispronounced the drink (it was a Tequiliana Caliente) much to the amusement of my comrades (actually, derision, but I want this to be more of a puff piece). I'm not much of a drinker. Usually after one drink I'm flat on my ass outside. However, it was way too frackin' cold out. The drink was made with some liquor of some sort (every liquor really tastes the same to me sans wine) but it was the guava and jalepeno pieces that made this for me. A bit of a girly drink but it was a sweet and satisfying taste to begin my meal.
My first course was about 6 scallops served in clam shells (yeah, I know, it doesn't make any sense either but aesthetically it looked nice) with a dash of pesto on top and a creamy sauce surrounding it. They were small scallops but I can't fault the restaurant in making small portions when there were two others on the way. The scallops were satisfying and didn't fill me up to start, which is a great sign for an appetizer. Then came the main course: assorted sushi. The fish was absolutely great. Fresh, delicious, and I didn't get any mercury poisoning afterwards. However, they were all generic rolls. Salmon, yellowtail, tuna, shrimp, etc. The peanut sauce on the side really made it unique but I expected more. For a restaurant that prides itself on its unique rolls, I expected a small smattering of them on the plate instead of what I received. Whatever disappointment from the assorted sushi was erased when I got dessert. It was a warm chocolate banana cake with warm chocolate sauce on top with some plantain chips for decoration. Again, this was small yet satisfying. At no point did any single flavor overwhelm any part of it. The chocolate and the banana blended so well that it felt like someone had a secret chocolate banana farm. By the end, my stomach was full and happy. Not so much in the days after where my stomach became upset. Sadly, I will need to take some points off for that but, overall, I recommend it. If only they had a better Restaurant Week menu...
8.5/10
iIili
I went to this place with my sister and my mom on the promise of Lebanese food. However, I found so much more. Besides the incredibly satisfying menu, the service here was top-notch. The servers were all incredibly attentive and the decor was subtle but effective.
To start, we received this fantastic starter of Labna (a yogurt dish with olive-oil) served with these amazingly crisp pita chips. From this, I knew it was a sign of great things to come. That and the sample of Lebanese wine was great as well. Then came the appetizers. Here's the thing with Restaurant Week. You get two appetizers with your meal. Yes. Two. Gigantic. Appetizers. I ordered this incredibly salad (FATOOSH!) and Lambjeena, which was ground lamb on pita. The salad had a minty, sweet taste and the lamb, though not so juicy because of the groundness, was delicious. I also sampled some other things like the Warm Eggplant (excellent through and through), the hommous (incredibly fresh), and fingerling potatoes (also excellent). After this, I may have been too full for the main course. Yes, usually this would be a bad sign for appetizers, but it was just as much as my fault since I chose to eat so much of it. Luckily, I found some room. The Lamb Burger was incredibly flavorful and juicy. Topped with mint yogurt and hommous (okay, I added the hommous on), it was succulent and messy to eat since the juice dripped all over the buns (yeah, kinda sounds kinky). Finally, there came the Achact (I think I misspelled that). A milk pudding with a peppermint & mint syrup, it was the finest dessert I can think of for this meal. It completely cleans the palette and is light enough that it makes you feel refreshed afterwards. Overall, a fantastic experience that I would share with anyone even if it weren't Restaurant Week.
9.5/10
Sushi Samba
Andrea and I went to this after the many wonderful things that I heard from, well, Andrea of course. I got in late (stupid NYC traffic) but Andrea got there before me. I met her at the bar, while she was charmingly seducing older men. Luckily I was there to be a buzzkill and get on with our restaurant review. I knew I was in for a treat after I read the menu and our bubbly waitress was already giving recommendations.
After everyone ordered a drink, I thought I might as well join the party. I mispronounced the drink (it was a Tequiliana Caliente) much to the amusement of my comrades (actually, derision, but I want this to be more of a puff piece). I'm not much of a drinker. Usually after one drink I'm flat on my ass outside. However, it was way too frackin' cold out. The drink was made with some liquor of some sort (every liquor really tastes the same to me sans wine) but it was the guava and jalepeno pieces that made this for me. A bit of a girly drink but it was a sweet and satisfying taste to begin my meal.
My first course was about 6 scallops served in clam shells (yeah, I know, it doesn't make any sense either but aesthetically it looked nice) with a dash of pesto on top and a creamy sauce surrounding it. They were small scallops but I can't fault the restaurant in making small portions when there were two others on the way. The scallops were satisfying and didn't fill me up to start, which is a great sign for an appetizer. Then came the main course: assorted sushi. The fish was absolutely great. Fresh, delicious, and I didn't get any mercury poisoning afterwards. However, they were all generic rolls. Salmon, yellowtail, tuna, shrimp, etc. The peanut sauce on the side really made it unique but I expected more. For a restaurant that prides itself on its unique rolls, I expected a small smattering of them on the plate instead of what I received. Whatever disappointment from the assorted sushi was erased when I got dessert. It was a warm chocolate banana cake with warm chocolate sauce on top with some plantain chips for decoration. Again, this was small yet satisfying. At no point did any single flavor overwhelm any part of it. The chocolate and the banana blended so well that it felt like someone had a secret chocolate banana farm. By the end, my stomach was full and happy. Not so much in the days after where my stomach became upset. Sadly, I will need to take some points off for that but, overall, I recommend it. If only they had a better Restaurant Week menu...
8.5/10
iIili
I went to this place with my sister and my mom on the promise of Lebanese food. However, I found so much more. Besides the incredibly satisfying menu, the service here was top-notch. The servers were all incredibly attentive and the decor was subtle but effective.
To start, we received this fantastic starter of Labna (a yogurt dish with olive-oil) served with these amazingly crisp pita chips. From this, I knew it was a sign of great things to come. That and the sample of Lebanese wine was great as well. Then came the appetizers. Here's the thing with Restaurant Week. You get two appetizers with your meal. Yes. Two. Gigantic. Appetizers. I ordered this incredibly salad (FATOOSH!) and Lambjeena, which was ground lamb on pita. The salad had a minty, sweet taste and the lamb, though not so juicy because of the groundness, was delicious. I also sampled some other things like the Warm Eggplant (excellent through and through), the hommous (incredibly fresh), and fingerling potatoes (also excellent). After this, I may have been too full for the main course. Yes, usually this would be a bad sign for appetizers, but it was just as much as my fault since I chose to eat so much of it. Luckily, I found some room. The Lamb Burger was incredibly flavorful and juicy. Topped with mint yogurt and hommous (okay, I added the hommous on), it was succulent and messy to eat since the juice dripped all over the buns (yeah, kinda sounds kinky). Finally, there came the Achact (I think I misspelled that). A milk pudding with a peppermint & mint syrup, it was the finest dessert I can think of for this meal. It completely cleans the palette and is light enough that it makes you feel refreshed afterwards. Overall, a fantastic experience that I would share with anyone even if it weren't Restaurant Week.
9.5/10
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Top 25 of the 00's
1) Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
"Okay."
The greatest love story of all time that transcends time itself. Every time I watch this film, I pick out something new. Even the little things in this film matter as you see the mind slowly become a husk of what it was. I cannot really express in words what I feel during this film. In words they are nothing. That is what gives this film so much power. Its images really show something incredible. Though there were words written by Charlie Kaufman, this is his and Michael Gondry's magnum-opus after-all, it's hard to think that, from a screenplay, this film was born. It's not just about memory but, in a way, how we are connected to film. We rewind, we rewatch, we see and we remember all of what has occured. Like a dream made for the masses, it's something I want to grasp onto and never let go. Writing about it now, I want to watch it again. And again. And again. You know what, I'll do that right now.
2) Memento
"Am I chasing him or is he chasing me?"
The 00's is the decade of Christopher Nolan. His first film, and his best, turns the film-noir on its head with a simple gimmick originally done on, of all places, Seinfeld: running the entire film in reverse. Yet it works. Brilliantly in fact. The mystery itself becomes more intense knowing how Lenny's short-term memory works and how others exploit it. Like Eternal Sunshine, it is a crisis of memory that makes another indelible picture.
3) Wall-E
""
Sometimes the most that can be said is nothing. When you have two near-silent protagonists, you have to admit you're making a gamble. You can end up with a crap if not done in the most capable hands. And that's where Pixar comes in. Again. Pixar is as durable as Wall-E and has all of his heart. It's not only a gamble doing that but also setting said film in the post-apocalypse? Yes, this film was not meant for kids. Frankly, a lot of Pixar's best work is better seen by some film-savvy adults to get the most out of it. Nevertheless, this is the bravest film to be released in the 00's. Not just because of what it is on the surface but it's message too. I will probably never know how Pixar creates such incredible stories but at least I can watch them.
4) The Dark Knight
"And...here...we...go."
For years, I wanted a true Batman film out there. I have been a Batman fan all my life and the greatest disappointments were watching those old ones made in 90's (although Batman Returns was pretty great though). Rewatching the original Batman film with Jack Nicholson was hard since, well, the film was called Batman but Batman really wasn't in it. Plus, the Joker was just Jack Nicholson. This is the great do-over. Sure, Batman Begins set the groundwork, but this wiped the slate clean of everything wrong with the superhero genre. This is a nitty, gritty crime drama with the greatest interpretation of the Joker to hit the screen. It's sad to think that it can never be done again but it's great to know that it happened. Hats off to you, Christopher Nolan and company. You have made the definitive superhero film and hopefully have inspired more to come *crosses fingers for Spidey reboot*.
5) City of God
"Do you want to take the shot? In the hand or in the foot?"
The best anti-tourist film to Brazil ever, this film really raised the stakes for how to make a film the 00's. Whereas before, many films were shot on sound stages or a place that's completely not the place it's set in (why does every other film about NYC look like Vancouver? Oh...). Here we have a film that relishes that it filmed in the slums of Rio. Many of the actors here too acted for the first time on this film and it surprisingly doesn't show. It just adds more to how authentic this film is.
6) There Will Be Blood
"I have competition in me. I want no one else to succeed. I hate most people."
I could've added more to the quote above but that would really ruin the fun here. An old fashioned epic that doesn't try too hard to impress you, this film has raised the stakes to what you can make your protagonist. The old saying goes that you need to have your main character have a little bit of sympathy for the audience to follow along. Daniel Plainview has none of that. At times, it is mistaken but, by the end, you know that he's a ruthless wrench...but you love him anyways for it.
7) The Man Who Wasn't There
"Me, I don't talk much...I just cut the hair."
Here's the recipe. Mix a little film noir with a little Coen Bros. and what do you get? Ta da! This remarkable piece of celluloid. A film that I still have no idea how it got rated R and no idea how it works so damn well. It's like every scene flows perfectly like a river without the rocky turbulence. It's so clean and seamless and yet that's the point. They made a clean, seamless film about clean, seamlesses. It's so bloody brilliant.
8) The Departed
"I'm the guy who does his job. You must be the other guy"
I could've just used the word "fuck" but what the hell? This is Scorsese's 00's masterpiece that will surely be looked at with the likes of Goodfellas, Raging Bull, and Taxi Driver to many film studies student in the future. Literally, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time watching this. At no point did I know who was going to live and who was going to die or who was going to be caught and who was going to go free.
9) Spirited Away
"You don't remember your name?"
Miyazaki is the master of anime. Frankly, watching other animes in comparison to his can sometimes be a shock to the system. Other animes can have weird, crazy shit happening in all directions. Miyazaki, however, makes it all make sense. Take this incredible film. Would an American film be able to pull off A) a train that travels on water B) the protagonist's parents turning into pigs C) a hotel filled with crazy-ass spirits running all over the place? I think not. Well, maybe Pixar might be able to do something.
10) The Incredibles
"No matter how many times you save the world, it always manages to get back in jeopardy again. Sometimes I just want it to stay saved! You know, for a little bit? I feel like the maid; I just cleaned up this mess! Can we keep it clean for... for ten minutes! "
Deconstruction is one of the operative words of the 00's. It eventually had to get superheroes but Pixar, like usual, was ahead of the curve here. Before every summer blockbuster became a superhero movie, Pixar made this film about how they cope when they really can't be superheroes anymore because of frivolous lawsuits. Yeah, there may be a right-wing undercurrent in some of it but I don't mind. It's a damn great movie.
11) Chang-Wook Park's Vengeance Trilogy (Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance/Oldboy/Sympathy for Lady Vengeance)
"Even though I'm no more than a monster, don't I, too, have the right to live?"
Is it cheating to put this all at 11? Chang-Wook Park has made the perfect trilogy of what vengeance does the human soul. I dare you to watch all three of these films at once and not feel like you want to commit suicide. Also, don't commit suicide. See the next film on this list to cheer you up.
12) Finding Nemo
"Just keep swimming! Just keep swimming!"
Is it also cheating that there's a lot of Pixar films in the Top 20? No. Not really. Though, if quality output is considered a monopoly by the FEC, they would probably be broken up right quick. You just can't stop Pixar.
13) The Lord of the Rings
"My preccciooouussssssssss"
Some directors only have one great film in them. Peter Jackson had three. Well, two and a half. The ending of the last one was pretty weak. Nevertheless, this film will go on to define what is an epic movie long, long into the future. Plus, after this, you really don't have to read the books. Believe me, I read them. If you can make it through the first half of the book of The Fellowship of the Ring, than G-d bless ya.
14) Up
"Adventure is out there!"
Pixar is the most consistent studio with the highest quality films. I still wonder when they are eventually going to slip up (my bet is Cars 2) but, at least now, we can bask in their golden years and the wonderful creative outflow created by it. This film also can work as a soul-detector. If you aren't moved by the first 12 minutes of the film, well, buddy, I hate to break it to ya.
15) Ratatouille
"In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment. We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we critics must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our criticism designating it so. But there are times when a critic truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the new. The world is often unkind to new talent, new creations, the new needs friends. Last night, I experienced something new, an extraordinary meal from a singularly unexpected source. To say that both the meal and its maker have challenged my preconceptions about fine cooking is a gross understatement. They have rocked me to my core. In the past, I have made no secret of my disdain for Chef Gusteau's famous motto: Anyone can cook. But I realize, only now do I truly understand what he meant. Not everyone can become a great artist, but a great artist can come from anywhere. It is difficult to imagine more humble origins than those of the genius now cooking at Gusteau's, who is, in this critic's opinion, nothing less than the finest chef in France. I will be returning to Gusteau's soon, hungry for more."
Whoa! Big quote there but it really is what makes this film so endearing. Pixar has a way of making a plot that usually has limited commercial potential into a fully-realized film everyone can enjoy. Kids will enjoy it for the funny rats but adults will enjoy it as a deconstruction on what art truly is. Well, the smart adults anyways. The dumb ones can enjoy the funny rats.
16) Pan's Labyrinth
"Hi! Are you a fairy?
Strong, manly men have cried many a manly tear after seeing this film. A fairy tale all gone wrong in Fascist Spain, this film's flights of fancy tend to uncover darker parts of what was going on at the time. Hell, the villain of the piece is more frightening than any of the creatures seen in the film. Or did we not see them? Were they all an illusion? Damn you Pan's Labyrinth for juggling my conception of reality!
17) Almost Famous
"I am a golden god!"
As a Classic Rock superfan, it would be dishonest to say that I placed this film way up here based on merit alone. Far from it. What it does is explain why people love music. Yeah, High Fidelity did that too but instead of placing the film solely on the eyes of a cynical, bitter man it places it in a naive fan overwhelmed by being surrounded by living rock gods (that, of course, have their own problems too). And, honestly, if I was thrust back into that time that's exactly how I would've been.
18) Band of Brothers
More of a gigantic movie than a miniseries, it is the definitive film about World War 2. Clocking in at over 10 hours, to watch it all entirely in a theater, it would be difficult. Broken up on DVD and TV, it's much more manageable. Make no mistake, this is not a television series. Like Lord of the Rings, it's just one gigantic broken up into manageable bites...well, unless you include the extended editions. Those take all day.
19) Children of Men
"Pull my finger!"
Some say that Avatar is the most revolutionary film of the 00's. Of course, I disagree. Watch this film and tell me that this is not the most realistic version of a future world out there. By not putting CGI directly in our faces but instead hiding it cleverly within the scene, it feels like we are with these characters the entire time. Sure, unlike Avatar, it's not a world we really want to be in but it sucks us in just the same. Plus, the plot isn't as hackeneyed.
20) Monsters Inc.
"Abominable. Can you believe that? Do I look abominable to you? Why can't they call me the Adorable Snowman, or the Agreeable Snowman, for crying out loud? I'm a nice guy."
Continuing the trend of one of the major themes of the 00's, this film deconstructs the monsters we were scared of as children into a bunch of office drones. True, their jobs are exciting, but they punch in and out like everyone else. And, yes, they can be just as petty as some people in an office can be. The visuals too are breathtaking, especially the "Ride of the Doors" sequence.
21) Road to Perdition
"There are only murderers in this room! Michael! Open your eyes! This is the life we chose, the life we lead. And there is only one guarantee: none of us will see heaven."
Sam Mendes' masterpiece. It's sort of an adaptation of "Lone Wolf and Cub" for the 1920's set but that would just simplify what he accomplishes here. It's a film made up of monsters and how some of them try to regain their souls. It's also notable that this is one of Paul Newman's final performances and what a fine, fine note to go out on.
22) Munich
"We are supposed to be righteous. That's a beautiful thing. And we're losing it. If I lose that, that's everything. That's my soul."
One of the most controversial and daring films of Steven Spielberg's career, this film is about how violence ends up solving nothing. In fact, all it creates is more violence. What's really amazing about this film is that there is no real good guys to root for. After every hit that Eric Bana's character completes, Spielberg creates a little voice in your head saying "Maybe this wasn't the guy after all." Heck, the original title of the film was Vengeance, which basically just says it right there.
23) The Squid and the Whale
"What is it about high school? You read all the worst books by good writers."
Noam Baumbach needs to make more movies. Besides being the finest film I've seen in the past decade on marital discord and the awkward life of the kids in the middle of it all...I really have nothing to add to that.
24) Anchorman
"I love lamp! I love lamp."
Even crazy, outlandish, comedies deserve their spots in film history. Well, only the good ones. And this is a fantastic one. Probably the most quotable film since The Big Lebowski, this film has something for almost every occasion. Hot days: "Milk was a bad choice!" Hangovers: "I woke up on the floor of some Japanese family's rec room and they would NOT stop screaming." Murdering someone with a trident: "I think you better lay low for a while."
25) Inglorious Basterds
"You probably heard we ain't in the prisoner-takin' business; we in the killin' Nazi business. And cousin, business is a-boomin'."
Hell yes. Quentin Tarantino has always been the king of bad-ass but this film puts him as the emperor. An alternate history story that is as enthralling as it is satisfying. The performances are indelible. Christopher Waltz plays his character like Sherlock Holmes except he's been indoctrinated with Nazism.
"Okay."
The greatest love story of all time that transcends time itself. Every time I watch this film, I pick out something new. Even the little things in this film matter as you see the mind slowly become a husk of what it was. I cannot really express in words what I feel during this film. In words they are nothing. That is what gives this film so much power. Its images really show something incredible. Though there were words written by Charlie Kaufman, this is his and Michael Gondry's magnum-opus after-all, it's hard to think that, from a screenplay, this film was born. It's not just about memory but, in a way, how we are connected to film. We rewind, we rewatch, we see and we remember all of what has occured. Like a dream made for the masses, it's something I want to grasp onto and never let go. Writing about it now, I want to watch it again. And again. And again. You know what, I'll do that right now.
2) Memento
"Am I chasing him or is he chasing me?"
The 00's is the decade of Christopher Nolan. His first film, and his best, turns the film-noir on its head with a simple gimmick originally done on, of all places, Seinfeld: running the entire film in reverse. Yet it works. Brilliantly in fact. The mystery itself becomes more intense knowing how Lenny's short-term memory works and how others exploit it. Like Eternal Sunshine, it is a crisis of memory that makes another indelible picture.
3) Wall-E
""
Sometimes the most that can be said is nothing. When you have two near-silent protagonists, you have to admit you're making a gamble. You can end up with a crap if not done in the most capable hands. And that's where Pixar comes in. Again. Pixar is as durable as Wall-E and has all of his heart. It's not only a gamble doing that but also setting said film in the post-apocalypse? Yes, this film was not meant for kids. Frankly, a lot of Pixar's best work is better seen by some film-savvy adults to get the most out of it. Nevertheless, this is the bravest film to be released in the 00's. Not just because of what it is on the surface but it's message too. I will probably never know how Pixar creates such incredible stories but at least I can watch them.
4) The Dark Knight
"And...here...we...go."
For years, I wanted a true Batman film out there. I have been a Batman fan all my life and the greatest disappointments were watching those old ones made in 90's (although Batman Returns was pretty great though). Rewatching the original Batman film with Jack Nicholson was hard since, well, the film was called Batman but Batman really wasn't in it. Plus, the Joker was just Jack Nicholson. This is the great do-over. Sure, Batman Begins set the groundwork, but this wiped the slate clean of everything wrong with the superhero genre. This is a nitty, gritty crime drama with the greatest interpretation of the Joker to hit the screen. It's sad to think that it can never be done again but it's great to know that it happened. Hats off to you, Christopher Nolan and company. You have made the definitive superhero film and hopefully have inspired more to come *crosses fingers for Spidey reboot*.
5) City of God
"Do you want to take the shot? In the hand or in the foot?"
The best anti-tourist film to Brazil ever, this film really raised the stakes for how to make a film the 00's. Whereas before, many films were shot on sound stages or a place that's completely not the place it's set in (why does every other film about NYC look like Vancouver? Oh...). Here we have a film that relishes that it filmed in the slums of Rio. Many of the actors here too acted for the first time on this film and it surprisingly doesn't show. It just adds more to how authentic this film is.
6) There Will Be Blood
"I have competition in me. I want no one else to succeed. I hate most people."
I could've added more to the quote above but that would really ruin the fun here. An old fashioned epic that doesn't try too hard to impress you, this film has raised the stakes to what you can make your protagonist. The old saying goes that you need to have your main character have a little bit of sympathy for the audience to follow along. Daniel Plainview has none of that. At times, it is mistaken but, by the end, you know that he's a ruthless wrench...but you love him anyways for it.
7) The Man Who Wasn't There
"Me, I don't talk much...I just cut the hair."
Here's the recipe. Mix a little film noir with a little Coen Bros. and what do you get? Ta da! This remarkable piece of celluloid. A film that I still have no idea how it got rated R and no idea how it works so damn well. It's like every scene flows perfectly like a river without the rocky turbulence. It's so clean and seamless and yet that's the point. They made a clean, seamless film about clean, seamlesses. It's so bloody brilliant.
8) The Departed
"I'm the guy who does his job. You must be the other guy"
I could've just used the word "fuck" but what the hell? This is Scorsese's 00's masterpiece that will surely be looked at with the likes of Goodfellas, Raging Bull, and Taxi Driver to many film studies student in the future. Literally, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time watching this. At no point did I know who was going to live and who was going to die or who was going to be caught and who was going to go free.
9) Spirited Away
"You don't remember your name?"
Miyazaki is the master of anime. Frankly, watching other animes in comparison to his can sometimes be a shock to the system. Other animes can have weird, crazy shit happening in all directions. Miyazaki, however, makes it all make sense. Take this incredible film. Would an American film be able to pull off A) a train that travels on water B) the protagonist's parents turning into pigs C) a hotel filled with crazy-ass spirits running all over the place? I think not. Well, maybe Pixar might be able to do something.
10) The Incredibles
"No matter how many times you save the world, it always manages to get back in jeopardy again. Sometimes I just want it to stay saved! You know, for a little bit? I feel like the maid; I just cleaned up this mess! Can we keep it clean for... for ten minutes! "
Deconstruction is one of the operative words of the 00's. It eventually had to get superheroes but Pixar, like usual, was ahead of the curve here. Before every summer blockbuster became a superhero movie, Pixar made this film about how they cope when they really can't be superheroes anymore because of frivolous lawsuits. Yeah, there may be a right-wing undercurrent in some of it but I don't mind. It's a damn great movie.
11) Chang-Wook Park's Vengeance Trilogy (Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance/Oldboy/Sympathy for Lady Vengeance)
"Even though I'm no more than a monster, don't I, too, have the right to live?"
Is it cheating to put this all at 11? Chang-Wook Park has made the perfect trilogy of what vengeance does the human soul. I dare you to watch all three of these films at once and not feel like you want to commit suicide. Also, don't commit suicide. See the next film on this list to cheer you up.
12) Finding Nemo
"Just keep swimming! Just keep swimming!"
Is it also cheating that there's a lot of Pixar films in the Top 20? No. Not really. Though, if quality output is considered a monopoly by the FEC, they would probably be broken up right quick. You just can't stop Pixar.
13) The Lord of the Rings
"My preccciooouussssssssss"
Some directors only have one great film in them. Peter Jackson had three. Well, two and a half. The ending of the last one was pretty weak. Nevertheless, this film will go on to define what is an epic movie long, long into the future. Plus, after this, you really don't have to read the books. Believe me, I read them. If you can make it through the first half of the book of The Fellowship of the Ring, than G-d bless ya.
14) Up
"Adventure is out there!"
Pixar is the most consistent studio with the highest quality films. I still wonder when they are eventually going to slip up (my bet is Cars 2) but, at least now, we can bask in their golden years and the wonderful creative outflow created by it. This film also can work as a soul-detector. If you aren't moved by the first 12 minutes of the film, well, buddy, I hate to break it to ya.
15) Ratatouille
"In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment. We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we critics must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our criticism designating it so. But there are times when a critic truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the new. The world is often unkind to new talent, new creations, the new needs friends. Last night, I experienced something new, an extraordinary meal from a singularly unexpected source. To say that both the meal and its maker have challenged my preconceptions about fine cooking is a gross understatement. They have rocked me to my core. In the past, I have made no secret of my disdain for Chef Gusteau's famous motto: Anyone can cook. But I realize, only now do I truly understand what he meant. Not everyone can become a great artist, but a great artist can come from anywhere. It is difficult to imagine more humble origins than those of the genius now cooking at Gusteau's, who is, in this critic's opinion, nothing less than the finest chef in France. I will be returning to Gusteau's soon, hungry for more."
Whoa! Big quote there but it really is what makes this film so endearing. Pixar has a way of making a plot that usually has limited commercial potential into a fully-realized film everyone can enjoy. Kids will enjoy it for the funny rats but adults will enjoy it as a deconstruction on what art truly is. Well, the smart adults anyways. The dumb ones can enjoy the funny rats.
16) Pan's Labyrinth
"Hi! Are you a fairy?
Strong, manly men have cried many a manly tear after seeing this film. A fairy tale all gone wrong in Fascist Spain, this film's flights of fancy tend to uncover darker parts of what was going on at the time. Hell, the villain of the piece is more frightening than any of the creatures seen in the film. Or did we not see them? Were they all an illusion? Damn you Pan's Labyrinth for juggling my conception of reality!
17) Almost Famous
"I am a golden god!"
As a Classic Rock superfan, it would be dishonest to say that I placed this film way up here based on merit alone. Far from it. What it does is explain why people love music. Yeah, High Fidelity did that too but instead of placing the film solely on the eyes of a cynical, bitter man it places it in a naive fan overwhelmed by being surrounded by living rock gods (that, of course, have their own problems too). And, honestly, if I was thrust back into that time that's exactly how I would've been.
18) Band of Brothers
More of a gigantic movie than a miniseries, it is the definitive film about World War 2. Clocking in at over 10 hours, to watch it all entirely in a theater, it would be difficult. Broken up on DVD and TV, it's much more manageable. Make no mistake, this is not a television series. Like Lord of the Rings, it's just one gigantic broken up into manageable bites...well, unless you include the extended editions. Those take all day.
19) Children of Men
"Pull my finger!"
Some say that Avatar is the most revolutionary film of the 00's. Of course, I disagree. Watch this film and tell me that this is not the most realistic version of a future world out there. By not putting CGI directly in our faces but instead hiding it cleverly within the scene, it feels like we are with these characters the entire time. Sure, unlike Avatar, it's not a world we really want to be in but it sucks us in just the same. Plus, the plot isn't as hackeneyed.
20) Monsters Inc.
"Abominable. Can you believe that? Do I look abominable to you? Why can't they call me the Adorable Snowman, or the Agreeable Snowman, for crying out loud? I'm a nice guy."
Continuing the trend of one of the major themes of the 00's, this film deconstructs the monsters we were scared of as children into a bunch of office drones. True, their jobs are exciting, but they punch in and out like everyone else. And, yes, they can be just as petty as some people in an office can be. The visuals too are breathtaking, especially the "Ride of the Doors" sequence.
21) Road to Perdition
"There are only murderers in this room! Michael! Open your eyes! This is the life we chose, the life we lead. And there is only one guarantee: none of us will see heaven."
Sam Mendes' masterpiece. It's sort of an adaptation of "Lone Wolf and Cub" for the 1920's set but that would just simplify what he accomplishes here. It's a film made up of monsters and how some of them try to regain their souls. It's also notable that this is one of Paul Newman's final performances and what a fine, fine note to go out on.
22) Munich
"We are supposed to be righteous. That's a beautiful thing. And we're losing it. If I lose that, that's everything. That's my soul."
One of the most controversial and daring films of Steven Spielberg's career, this film is about how violence ends up solving nothing. In fact, all it creates is more violence. What's really amazing about this film is that there is no real good guys to root for. After every hit that Eric Bana's character completes, Spielberg creates a little voice in your head saying "Maybe this wasn't the guy after all." Heck, the original title of the film was Vengeance, which basically just says it right there.
23) The Squid and the Whale
"What is it about high school? You read all the worst books by good writers."
Noam Baumbach needs to make more movies. Besides being the finest film I've seen in the past decade on marital discord and the awkward life of the kids in the middle of it all...I really have nothing to add to that.
24) Anchorman
"I love lamp! I love lamp."
Even crazy, outlandish, comedies deserve their spots in film history. Well, only the good ones. And this is a fantastic one. Probably the most quotable film since The Big Lebowski, this film has something for almost every occasion. Hot days: "Milk was a bad choice!" Hangovers: "I woke up on the floor of some Japanese family's rec room and they would NOT stop screaming." Murdering someone with a trident: "I think you better lay low for a while."
25) Inglorious Basterds
"You probably heard we ain't in the prisoner-takin' business; we in the killin' Nazi business. And cousin, business is a-boomin'."
Hell yes. Quentin Tarantino has always been the king of bad-ass but this film puts him as the emperor. An alternate history story that is as enthralling as it is satisfying. The performances are indelible. Christopher Waltz plays his character like Sherlock Holmes except he's been indoctrinated with Nazism.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Top 100 of the 00's: 26 to 49: Almost There!
26) Brick
"Maybe I'll just sit here and bleed at you."
The noir had a brief resurgence in the 00's and this is one of the finest selections of it. Setting a basic noir in High School was perhaps one of the smartest moves I've seen a director/writer make in a long time. The mystery is also pretty good too.
27) Requiem for a Dream
"I'm somebody now, Harry. Everybody likes me. Soon, millions of people will see me and they'll all like me. I'll tell them about you, and your father, how good he was to us. Remember? It's a reason to get up in the morning. It's a reason to lose weight, to fit in the red dress. It's a reason to smile. It makes tomorrow all right. What have I got Harry, hm? Why should I even make the bed, or wash the dishes? I do them, but why should I? I'm alone. Your father's gone, you're gone. I got no one to care for. What have I got, Harry? I'm lonely. I'm old."
Thinking about doing drugs? Well, when you're done with this film, you'll not only never want to take drugs but...yeah, that's about it. No one comes home happy after watching this.
28) Kingdom of Heaven: The Director's Cut
"To kill an infidel, the Pope has said, is not murder. It is the path to Heaven."
Butchered by Fox on its initial release in order to get more screenings per day, it's a marvel to see the film that was supposed to be. Part critique of certain wars waged today and part historical look into religious fanaticism, the film is not a glorious war epic like "Troy." It's a long look at the costs of war and what it makes out of people.
29) The 40-Year Old Virgin
"I hope you have a big trunk because I'm puttin' my bike in it."
The film that rewrote how most comedies are made today and it's 2 hours long. Yet, for 2 hours, I'm laughing throughout it. It also proved another thing about making a great comedy: it comes from the heart.
30) The Royal Tenenbaums
"Let's shag ass."
A tragi-comedy made the only way Wes Andersen knows how. Quirky but grounded enough in reality so that we can relate to the people in the film.
31) A Very Long Engagement
"If I don't break the peel, Manech is alive."
I'm completely in the minority here saying that this is better than "Amelie" but eh. I don't really need to justify it. It combined two things I love: quirky French direction and historical dramas.
32) The Pianist
"I was cold."
After "Schindler's List", there really wasn't a Holocaust film that could top it. Then came this. Combining Roman Polanski's experience and a strong story of survival, this film shows how one man can survive one of the worst periods in human civilization and still come out of it a human-being.
33) The Proposition
"I will civilize this land."
Aussies really know how to make the post-apocalypse even if this takes place way before then. Taking place on the border of civilization and oblivion, this, kind of like "The Pianist", is an evaluation of humanity.
34) Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang
"This is every shade of wrong."
A post-modern riff on both noirs and action films, this film, marking the grand return of Robert Downey Jr. to our hearts, breaks down all the walls possible. 4th walls, cliches, and everything is disposed of here. It is perhaps the most cynical, meta-critique of Hollywood films since "The Purple Rose of Cairo."
35) Batman Begins
"Bats frighten me. It's time my enemies shared my dread."
This is the reason why we have good superhero films. By making one of the most critically reviled franchises and bringing it back from oblivion, this film proved that anything can be restarted back from zero. Sure the action sequences make little sense sometimes but, by the end, it feels like the return of a great American icon.
36) Superbad
"I'm assuming you all have guns and crack!"
If there was a film to ever have one of the most accurate looks into being in High School, "Superbad" is it. Like "40 Year Old Virgin", this is another Apatow classic that places more on heart and characters instead of cheap fart jokes.
37) X2
"When will these people learn how to fly?"
An enjoyable romp and, by far, is the best Marvel film to come to the screen. Even if the first and third installments were mediocre at best, this one at least had enough exciting action sequences and character turns to justify its existence.
38) Adaptation
"Hey, I think I should play me."
Charlie Kaufman can do no wrong. That's all that needs to be said.
39) Jesus Camp
Perhaps the scariest film of all time, this documentary shows how the youth of America can be brainwashed with far-right wing thinking. What's scarier about this film is that it isn't edited to give this camp a bad image. Even the head agreed when this film was released that it accurately represented them.
40) The Prestige
"Now you're looking for the secret. But you won’t find it because of course, you're not really looking. You don't really want to work it out. You want to be fooled."
Like Charlie Kaufman, the Nolans can do no wrong. A dark film where all the pieces matter, "The Prestige" is one of those films where your sympathies shift widely throughout the film. Once you like someone, the next minute you hate them. These shifts would've been maddening under less-capable hands but, under the Nolans, it works.
41) No Country for Old Men
"Stand still, please."
Cormac McCarthy is a hard writer to adapt. Much of the brilliance of his works comes from his words. When the Coens chose to adapt this, it only meant something brilliant. They didn't disappoint.
42) Shaun of the Dead/ Hot Fuzz
"Who died and made you fucking king of the zombies?"
Tied for a reason. Edgar Wright has made a new genre with these two films. They're parodies but not spoofs. These send up a genre but, in the end, they have the same heart as a film by Apatow.
43) Minority Report
"Mr. Marks, by mandate of the District of Columbia Precrime Division, I'm placing you under arrest for the future murder of Sarah Marks and Donald Dubin that was to take place today, April 22 at 0800 hours and four minutes."
A great mystery and a great adaptation of the sci-fi master: Philip K. Dick. It's amazing to think it took so long to put this together. Like any great sci-fi film, it asks hard questions. When is it right to arrest someone? How are we so sure that someone is prone to become a danger to society?
44) The Wrestler
"I just want to tell you, I'm the one who was supposed to take care of everything. I'm the one who was supposed to make everything okay for everybody. It just didn't work out like that. And I left. I left you. You never did anything wrong. I used to try to forget about you. I used to try to pretend that you didn't exist, but I can't. You're my girl. You're my little girl. And now, I'm an old broken down piece of meat... and I'm alone. And I deserve to be all alone. I just don't want you to hate me."
Just read that quote and you'll see why I love this film as much as you enjoyed reading.
45) Catch Me If You Can
"Two little mice fell in a bucket of cream. The first mouse quickly gave up and drowned. The second mouse, wouldn't quit. He struggled so hard that eventually he churned that cream into butter and crawled out. Gentlemen, as of this moment, I am that second mouse."
A brilliant caper that is even more brilliant knowing that a great deal of it actually happens.
46) Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl
"First, your return to shore was not part of our negotiations nor our agreement so I must do nothing. And secondly, you must be a pirate for the pirate's code to apply and you're not. And thirdly, the code is more what you'd call "guidelines" than actual rules. Welcome aboard the Black Pearl, Miss Turner."
This film came out of nowhere. Seriously, if you remember the trailers, it looked like a joke. Then Johnny Depp and Geoffrey Rush came on the screen. This is how magic happens, folks. Sometimes Transformers is right. There is more than meets the eye. Or aye if you want to speak in pirate.
47) Kill Bill
"I am finished doing what I swore an oath to God 28 years ago to never do again. I've created, "something that kills people." And in that purpose, I was a success. I've done this because, philosophically, I am sympathetic to your aim. I can tell you with no ego, this is my finest sword. If on your journey, you should encounter God, God will be cut."
Just pure fun. Watching both movies over again is a blast every time. Sometimes films really don't have to say something incredibly profound to be completely memorable and enjoyable.
48) AI
"My brain is falling out."
Underrated is one word for it. Technically Kubrick's last gift to the world as envisioned by Spielberg, AI is more than just the "robot wants to be human" story. Yeah, it has that too but it really questions what makes humanity human. As opposed to "The Bicentennial Man", it lingers more on the questions of what love is and if the human race is really worth saving.
49) American Psycho
"Do you like Huey Lewis?"
It's scary to think that this film could've been easily made again in the late 00's and set then and it wouldn't really make any difference. It's a long, hard look at the cost of what a profit-driven society creates.
"Maybe I'll just sit here and bleed at you."
The noir had a brief resurgence in the 00's and this is one of the finest selections of it. Setting a basic noir in High School was perhaps one of the smartest moves I've seen a director/writer make in a long time. The mystery is also pretty good too.
27) Requiem for a Dream
"I'm somebody now, Harry. Everybody likes me. Soon, millions of people will see me and they'll all like me. I'll tell them about you, and your father, how good he was to us. Remember? It's a reason to get up in the morning. It's a reason to lose weight, to fit in the red dress. It's a reason to smile. It makes tomorrow all right. What have I got Harry, hm? Why should I even make the bed, or wash the dishes? I do them, but why should I? I'm alone. Your father's gone, you're gone. I got no one to care for. What have I got, Harry? I'm lonely. I'm old."
Thinking about doing drugs? Well, when you're done with this film, you'll not only never want to take drugs but...yeah, that's about it. No one comes home happy after watching this.
28) Kingdom of Heaven: The Director's Cut
"To kill an infidel, the Pope has said, is not murder. It is the path to Heaven."
Butchered by Fox on its initial release in order to get more screenings per day, it's a marvel to see the film that was supposed to be. Part critique of certain wars waged today and part historical look into religious fanaticism, the film is not a glorious war epic like "Troy." It's a long look at the costs of war and what it makes out of people.
29) The 40-Year Old Virgin
"I hope you have a big trunk because I'm puttin' my bike in it."
The film that rewrote how most comedies are made today and it's 2 hours long. Yet, for 2 hours, I'm laughing throughout it. It also proved another thing about making a great comedy: it comes from the heart.
30) The Royal Tenenbaums
"Let's shag ass."
A tragi-comedy made the only way Wes Andersen knows how. Quirky but grounded enough in reality so that we can relate to the people in the film.
31) A Very Long Engagement
"If I don't break the peel, Manech is alive."
I'm completely in the minority here saying that this is better than "Amelie" but eh. I don't really need to justify it. It combined two things I love: quirky French direction and historical dramas.
32) The Pianist
"I was cold."
After "Schindler's List", there really wasn't a Holocaust film that could top it. Then came this. Combining Roman Polanski's experience and a strong story of survival, this film shows how one man can survive one of the worst periods in human civilization and still come out of it a human-being.
33) The Proposition
"I will civilize this land."
Aussies really know how to make the post-apocalypse even if this takes place way before then. Taking place on the border of civilization and oblivion, this, kind of like "The Pianist", is an evaluation of humanity.
34) Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang
"This is every shade of wrong."
A post-modern riff on both noirs and action films, this film, marking the grand return of Robert Downey Jr. to our hearts, breaks down all the walls possible. 4th walls, cliches, and everything is disposed of here. It is perhaps the most cynical, meta-critique of Hollywood films since "The Purple Rose of Cairo."
35) Batman Begins
"Bats frighten me. It's time my enemies shared my dread."
This is the reason why we have good superhero films. By making one of the most critically reviled franchises and bringing it back from oblivion, this film proved that anything can be restarted back from zero. Sure the action sequences make little sense sometimes but, by the end, it feels like the return of a great American icon.
36) Superbad
"I'm assuming you all have guns and crack!"
If there was a film to ever have one of the most accurate looks into being in High School, "Superbad" is it. Like "40 Year Old Virgin", this is another Apatow classic that places more on heart and characters instead of cheap fart jokes.
37) X2
"When will these people learn how to fly?"
An enjoyable romp and, by far, is the best Marvel film to come to the screen. Even if the first and third installments were mediocre at best, this one at least had enough exciting action sequences and character turns to justify its existence.
38) Adaptation
"Hey, I think I should play me."
Charlie Kaufman can do no wrong. That's all that needs to be said.
39) Jesus Camp
Perhaps the scariest film of all time, this documentary shows how the youth of America can be brainwashed with far-right wing thinking. What's scarier about this film is that it isn't edited to give this camp a bad image. Even the head agreed when this film was released that it accurately represented them.
40) The Prestige
"Now you're looking for the secret. But you won’t find it because of course, you're not really looking. You don't really want to work it out. You want to be fooled."
Like Charlie Kaufman, the Nolans can do no wrong. A dark film where all the pieces matter, "The Prestige" is one of those films where your sympathies shift widely throughout the film. Once you like someone, the next minute you hate them. These shifts would've been maddening under less-capable hands but, under the Nolans, it works.
41) No Country for Old Men
"Stand still, please."
Cormac McCarthy is a hard writer to adapt. Much of the brilliance of his works comes from his words. When the Coens chose to adapt this, it only meant something brilliant. They didn't disappoint.
42) Shaun of the Dead/ Hot Fuzz
"Who died and made you fucking king of the zombies?"
Tied for a reason. Edgar Wright has made a new genre with these two films. They're parodies but not spoofs. These send up a genre but, in the end, they have the same heart as a film by Apatow.
43) Minority Report
"Mr. Marks, by mandate of the District of Columbia Precrime Division, I'm placing you under arrest for the future murder of Sarah Marks and Donald Dubin that was to take place today, April 22 at 0800 hours and four minutes."
A great mystery and a great adaptation of the sci-fi master: Philip K. Dick. It's amazing to think it took so long to put this together. Like any great sci-fi film, it asks hard questions. When is it right to arrest someone? How are we so sure that someone is prone to become a danger to society?
44) The Wrestler
"I just want to tell you, I'm the one who was supposed to take care of everything. I'm the one who was supposed to make everything okay for everybody. It just didn't work out like that. And I left. I left you. You never did anything wrong. I used to try to forget about you. I used to try to pretend that you didn't exist, but I can't. You're my girl. You're my little girl. And now, I'm an old broken down piece of meat... and I'm alone. And I deserve to be all alone. I just don't want you to hate me."
Just read that quote and you'll see why I love this film as much as you enjoyed reading.
45) Catch Me If You Can
"Two little mice fell in a bucket of cream. The first mouse quickly gave up and drowned. The second mouse, wouldn't quit. He struggled so hard that eventually he churned that cream into butter and crawled out. Gentlemen, as of this moment, I am that second mouse."
A brilliant caper that is even more brilliant knowing that a great deal of it actually happens.
46) Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl
"First, your return to shore was not part of our negotiations nor our agreement so I must do nothing. And secondly, you must be a pirate for the pirate's code to apply and you're not. And thirdly, the code is more what you'd call "guidelines" than actual rules. Welcome aboard the Black Pearl, Miss Turner."
This film came out of nowhere. Seriously, if you remember the trailers, it looked like a joke. Then Johnny Depp and Geoffrey Rush came on the screen. This is how magic happens, folks. Sometimes Transformers is right. There is more than meets the eye. Or aye if you want to speak in pirate.
47) Kill Bill
"I am finished doing what I swore an oath to God 28 years ago to never do again. I've created, "something that kills people." And in that purpose, I was a success. I've done this because, philosophically, I am sympathetic to your aim. I can tell you with no ego, this is my finest sword. If on your journey, you should encounter God, God will be cut."
Just pure fun. Watching both movies over again is a blast every time. Sometimes films really don't have to say something incredibly profound to be completely memorable and enjoyable.
48) AI
"My brain is falling out."
Underrated is one word for it. Technically Kubrick's last gift to the world as envisioned by Spielberg, AI is more than just the "robot wants to be human" story. Yeah, it has that too but it really questions what makes humanity human. As opposed to "The Bicentennial Man", it lingers more on the questions of what love is and if the human race is really worth saving.
49) American Psycho
"Do you like Huey Lewis?"
It's scary to think that this film could've been easily made again in the late 00's and set then and it wouldn't really make any difference. It's a long, hard look at the cost of what a profit-driven society creates.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Top 100 of the Decade Part 2: The Search For More Money (50-74)
Preamble Part 2: If the 00's taught us anything is that great films can come from anywhere. Where the term "film" has become looser as DVDs, the internet, television, etc. have redefined cinematic experience. With home theaters becoming more and more common as they become more and more cost affordable, it comes naturally that film expanded the amount of mediums that it could be told. I separated films from television into two distinctive lists so there would be little cross-over as possible. Nevertheless, there will be some films on this list that got their start of television or on DVD. It's inevitable when putting together what is truly the greatest of the past decade.
50) Let the Right One In
"It's just that I've been twelve for a long time."
What "Twilight" should've been. That is if "Twilight" was intended for foreign film geeks instead of adolescent girls. It's a brilliant story of boy meets vampire because it feels real. There's no real fawning over how a vampire is sexy and cool. They're just two kids caught up in a whirlwind of madness.
51) Persepolis
"Listen. I don't like to preach, but here's some advice. You'll meet a lot of jerks in life. If they hurt you, remember it's because they're stupid. Don't react to their cruelty. There's nothing worse than bitterness and revenge. Keep your dignity and be true to yourself."
It's sad to think that the 00's truly is the final resting grounds of the cell animated film. With CGI films become the predominant mode of cinematic animation, it's a wonder to see a cell animated film fall through the cracks every once in a while. "Persepolis" does something even more remarkable. It's the rare animated film aimed at adults that both pleases and has something worthy to tell. Plus, it's black and white. Yeah. No wonder this film only stuck on the art house circuit.
52) Gone Baby Gone
"You come 'round here again, and I'm gonna get discourteous on your ass."
Ben Affleck, bad actor, great director. For years I wondered if it was just Matt Damon that wrote "Good Will Hunting." Now I know the talent that Ben Affleck has so carefully concealed from audiences. That and his brother who has pretty much been doomed to indie films. At least with this and a title later on, he has been able to break out more.
53) The Constant Gardener
"Don't try to play detective."
A lot of films made in the 00's came to be known as message films. Films that are about something that is actually happening in the world but takes a dramatic interpretation to show it. "Brokeback Mountain" and even "Crash" can fall under this. The problem with these films is that sometimes they can get too preachy. "The Constant Gardener" strikes a balance of showing the evils of the world with actually telling a great story.
54) When the Levees Broke
Spike Lee is many things to many people. In the 00's, he has had a dip in his creative output, certainly, but, man oh man, he really knows how to put the message across. Going down to New Orleans after Katrina, Spike Lee documented this, sometimes, cinema verite look at life post-Katrina and how far people had to sink to survive. However, that's only part of the story. This documentary captures Katrina from all angles. From the responders to the residents to journalists to everyone in-between. It's a living, breathing document of history that will certainly help keep the memories alive of the worst storm (metaphorically and literally) to ever hit the US.
55) Synechdoche, NY
"But while alive, you wait in vain, wasting years, for a phone call or a letter or a look from someone or something to make it all right. And it never comes or it seems to but it doesn't really. And so you spend your time in vague regret or vaguer hope that something good will come along. Something to make you feel connected, something to make you feel whole, something to make you feel loved. And the truth is I feel so angry, and the truth is I feel so fucking sad, and the truth is I've felt so fucking hurt for so fucking long and for just as long I've been pretending I'm OK, just to get along, just for, I don't know why, maybe because no one wants to hear about my misery, because they have their own. Well, fuck everybody. Amen."
Can Charlie Kaufman do no wrong? Okay, "Human Nature" aside, this man is a genius. Put him behind the director's chair and it's amazing what he can do. Many writers that become directors end up shooting their own work in the proverbial foot. Not so here. True, it starts off like typical art house fair about disturbed genius but, by the end, I was shaking from how amazing every tied together. Was it real? Was it all imaginary? So many questions still linger in my mind after watching it. Come to think of it, the more I do, the hire it goes up on my list.
56) Little Miss Sunshine
"Oh my God, I'm getting pulled over. Everyone, just... pretend to be normal."
If you ever felt bad about your messed-up family, then watch this film. I guarantee it will make you hug them afterwards. I can watch this film a hundred times and still feel giddy afterwards.
57) Zodiac
"I am not the Zodiac. And if I were, I certainly wouldn't tell you."
Obsession. It's one of the biggest driving points of serial killers. This film skews this and shows how the detectives themselves become so possessed with a case that it ruins their lives. At nearly 3 hours long, the time flies like a breeze. David Fincher's long over-due return after stumbling slightly with "Panic Room", he really makes one of the most realistic looks of the hunt for a madman.
58) Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker Uncut
"You know, kids, a lot has changed since your old Uncle Joker's been away. New Gotham, new rules, even a new Batman. But now I'm tanned, I'm rested and I'm ready to give this old town a wedgie again!"
Like I said earlier, a great film can come from anywhere. Sadly this isn't often the case with straight-to-DVD movies. Nevertheless, there's still some gold hidden amongst all the turds. Until "The Dark Knight," this film was the definitive take on the Joker. Sure, initially when it came out it was cut to ribbons, but when it was released in its uncut form, it really shined indeed.
59) Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World
"Captain's not called Lucky Jack for no reason."
Most people tend to forget this film. Coming out close to "Pirates", this beautiful and high-rollicking high-seas adventure tale for the Oscar-savvy crowd was truly something to ogle at. The beauty of the Galapagos and the brutality of the epic ship battles created a film filled with cognitive dissonance.
60) Green Lantern: First Flight
"Let me tell you, friend. The only way to operate out here is by fear. They hit, I hit harder. They attack, I annihilate. I am the one constant, unassailable force against their chaos and you made them forget that. You think I enjoy this? Look at the universe the Guardians have created. We have the greatest power in the cosmos and what have they made us? Garbage collectors! We pick up the trash."
Need I say more about this film? Nah. Not really. I want to focus on the rest of the entries. You can read more about this film on my column on DC Animated films.
61) The Assassination of Jesse James
"He was ashamed of his persiflage, his boasting, his pretensions of courage and ruthlessness; he was sorry about his cold-bloodedness, his dispassion, his inability to express what he now believed was the case- that he truly regretted killing Jesse, that he missed the man as much as anybody and wished his murder hadn't been necessary."
Beautiful. Simply beautiful. Thank you HD cinema. You finally created something the equivalent of actually being there.
62) Amelie
"It's better to help people than garden gnomes."
A quirky comedy with an irrepressible lead and wonderful characters, this film bottles pure happiness and shares it with the world. It's interesting how it's a stark contrast to the director's earlier works, which have been known for their quirky dark imagery like "Delicatessan" and "City of Lost Children". Well, as the French say, ce la vie.
63) The Life Aquatic
"Don't point that gun at him, he's an unpaid intern."
The most underrated gem from Wes Anderson. Combining Henry Selick's stop-motion animation expertise, a wonderful script by Wes Anderson, and beautiful mise en scene, the film relishes in beauty amongst the crappy, crappy life of Steve Zissou. Bill Murray's career revival from comedian to comedian with existential problems is astounding to watch as it unfurls on screen.
64) The Princess and the Frog
"You sure this is the right blind voodoo lady who lives in the boat in the tree in the bayou?"
The best Disney cell-animated film since "The Lion King", "The Princess and the Frog" is something all children should see. Whereas the message of other Disney films is essentially "find someone rich and get married", the film takes something from "Enchanted" where the message is to get to know someone before you make a commitment. That and hard work goes a long way. Also, some crocodiles carry around a trumpet. Kids will love that one when they go to the Everglades.
65) Before the Devil Knows You're Dead
"We don't want Tiffany's. We want a Mom and Pop operation, in a busy place, on a Saturday when the week's takes go in the safe. We both worked there. We know the safe combinations. We know the burglar alarm signals. We know where everything is. I figure, between the week's take, the jewelry and the cases, the vault, there's a $500,000 haul. I figure probably six. The old dumb old lady that works there, she's alone till noon. She's not going to be a problem."
Sidney Lumet is the hardest working man in showbiz. Making the film in his 80's (holy shit!) it's a wonder to see how incredible the film came out. Some directors retire after they make a couple of bad films in a row. Not Lumet. He still has some great movies in him. Even if this one in particular was perhaps the bleakest I've seen all decade.
66) Good Night and Good Luck
"Good night, and good luck."
Going back to message films, a great one is also one that creates an analogy between the past and the present. "Good Night and Good Luck" is remarkable as it came out during the height of Bush's reign in office and blew a lot of smoke back in his and his fellow Republican's faces. Though a lot of us see the past as the past, it's scary to think that this too may occur again one day. Especially if the current people running the Republican party get in control again.
67) Traffic
"Well, you know, in Mexico, law enforcement is an entrepreneurial activity. Not so much in the states, anyway, we, uh... We hire drivers with nothing and throw a lot of product at the problem. Some gets stopped, enough gets through. It's not difficult. Look, boys, this has worked for years, okay. It's going to continue to work for years."
Showing all aspects of the drug trade from low-level pusher to drug lords to drug czars that, apparently, can't hold their families together, it's as if the film distilled "The Wire" into a 2-hour opus. Mind you, it isn't as great as "The Wire", but it's still incredible to see how intricately plotted the film is by the end of it.
68) O Brother, Where Art Thou?
"So long boys. See you in the funny papers."
Coming off the era of the "Coens can do no wrong", I can see no way how anyone else could've made this film. An adaptation of "The Odyssey" based in the old South was a brilliant move on the Coens part. By taking the myths of the old South and, sometimes literally, burning them to the ground, the Coens essentially demystify what "Gone With the Wind" and other films of that ilk have so carefully crafted as a romantic reading of the old South. Taking a myth to disprove another myth. It's mind-boggling but, then again, it's the Coen Brothers.
69) Gangs of New York
"He ain't earned a death! He ain't a death at my hands! No, he'll walk amongst you marked with shame, a freak worthy of Barnum's Museum of Wonders. God's only man, spared by the Butcher."
Scorsese throughout the late-90's was on a downward spiral. Washed-up some people called him. Then he found Leonardo DiCaprio and, very soon, all was right with the world again. Plus, Daniel Day-Lewis to boot. It's a dirty, rotten picture filled with little sympathetic characters but it really captures history at that point in time.
70) Little Children
"I'm not a nice person."
Films are only as good as the performers in them and the performances in this are all five stars. Stepping back from the deluge of message films, "Little Children" examines the craziness of suburbia. Yeah, there's a lot of films like that, but it doesn't focus on the buildings and the societies surrounding it. It plays up the interpersonal connections and misconnections people make trying to escape it in some way. Even if it means retreating into childhood.
71) The Aviator
"Everybody works for you, Howard."
I take this film as Leonardo DiCaprio's official apology for "Titanic." Showing that really has the stones to act, he surprised me in how incredibly well rounded (and crazy) his interpretation of Howard Hughes was. Some biopics of Hollywood stars tend to focus on the drama and this film is guilty at that in times. However, it's really a great film about how close genius is to madness.
72) The Visitor
"We are not helpless children!"
When I started this film, I thought nothing of it. Then, thirty minutes in, everything changed. Wait, I wrote a review for this too. Check the archives!
73) Lost in Translation
"Can you keep a secret? I'm trying to organize a prison break. I'm looking for, like, an accomplice. We have to first get out of this bar, then the hotel, then the city, and then the country. Are you in or you out?"
How can you go wrong with the stellar chemistry between Bill Murray and Scarlet Johanssen? You really can't. And in Japan. Bill Murray solidified his revival with this film and it really hasn't worn its way through age. The shots of Japan are simply breathtaking at times (as well as the opening shot).
74) Caprica (TV-movie)
"What have you done?"
"Battlestar Galactica" was one of the greatest show revivals ever forged. There's a danger when trying to spin-off a success like that. You sometimes come up with something like the, I don't know, the countless spin-offs of "Stargate". Though, I don't want to confuse you, but this pilot was originally a television-movie and not a show. However, the network found it so good (from research of course and actually watching it) that they gave it a full first season. After watching this, I'd give it a couple of more.
50) Let the Right One In
"It's just that I've been twelve for a long time."
What "Twilight" should've been. That is if "Twilight" was intended for foreign film geeks instead of adolescent girls. It's a brilliant story of boy meets vampire because it feels real. There's no real fawning over how a vampire is sexy and cool. They're just two kids caught up in a whirlwind of madness.
51) Persepolis
"Listen. I don't like to preach, but here's some advice. You'll meet a lot of jerks in life. If they hurt you, remember it's because they're stupid. Don't react to their cruelty. There's nothing worse than bitterness and revenge. Keep your dignity and be true to yourself."
It's sad to think that the 00's truly is the final resting grounds of the cell animated film. With CGI films become the predominant mode of cinematic animation, it's a wonder to see a cell animated film fall through the cracks every once in a while. "Persepolis" does something even more remarkable. It's the rare animated film aimed at adults that both pleases and has something worthy to tell. Plus, it's black and white. Yeah. No wonder this film only stuck on the art house circuit.
52) Gone Baby Gone
"You come 'round here again, and I'm gonna get discourteous on your ass."
Ben Affleck, bad actor, great director. For years I wondered if it was just Matt Damon that wrote "Good Will Hunting." Now I know the talent that Ben Affleck has so carefully concealed from audiences. That and his brother who has pretty much been doomed to indie films. At least with this and a title later on, he has been able to break out more.
53) The Constant Gardener
"Don't try to play detective."
A lot of films made in the 00's came to be known as message films. Films that are about something that is actually happening in the world but takes a dramatic interpretation to show it. "Brokeback Mountain" and even "Crash" can fall under this. The problem with these films is that sometimes they can get too preachy. "The Constant Gardener" strikes a balance of showing the evils of the world with actually telling a great story.
54) When the Levees Broke
Spike Lee is many things to many people. In the 00's, he has had a dip in his creative output, certainly, but, man oh man, he really knows how to put the message across. Going down to New Orleans after Katrina, Spike Lee documented this, sometimes, cinema verite look at life post-Katrina and how far people had to sink to survive. However, that's only part of the story. This documentary captures Katrina from all angles. From the responders to the residents to journalists to everyone in-between. It's a living, breathing document of history that will certainly help keep the memories alive of the worst storm (metaphorically and literally) to ever hit the US.
55) Synechdoche, NY
"But while alive, you wait in vain, wasting years, for a phone call or a letter or a look from someone or something to make it all right. And it never comes or it seems to but it doesn't really. And so you spend your time in vague regret or vaguer hope that something good will come along. Something to make you feel connected, something to make you feel whole, something to make you feel loved. And the truth is I feel so angry, and the truth is I feel so fucking sad, and the truth is I've felt so fucking hurt for so fucking long and for just as long I've been pretending I'm OK, just to get along, just for, I don't know why, maybe because no one wants to hear about my misery, because they have their own. Well, fuck everybody. Amen."
Can Charlie Kaufman do no wrong? Okay, "Human Nature" aside, this man is a genius. Put him behind the director's chair and it's amazing what he can do. Many writers that become directors end up shooting their own work in the proverbial foot. Not so here. True, it starts off like typical art house fair about disturbed genius but, by the end, I was shaking from how amazing every tied together. Was it real? Was it all imaginary? So many questions still linger in my mind after watching it. Come to think of it, the more I do, the hire it goes up on my list.
56) Little Miss Sunshine
"Oh my God, I'm getting pulled over. Everyone, just... pretend to be normal."
If you ever felt bad about your messed-up family, then watch this film. I guarantee it will make you hug them afterwards. I can watch this film a hundred times and still feel giddy afterwards.
57) Zodiac
"I am not the Zodiac. And if I were, I certainly wouldn't tell you."
Obsession. It's one of the biggest driving points of serial killers. This film skews this and shows how the detectives themselves become so possessed with a case that it ruins their lives. At nearly 3 hours long, the time flies like a breeze. David Fincher's long over-due return after stumbling slightly with "Panic Room", he really makes one of the most realistic looks of the hunt for a madman.
58) Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker Uncut
"You know, kids, a lot has changed since your old Uncle Joker's been away. New Gotham, new rules, even a new Batman. But now I'm tanned, I'm rested and I'm ready to give this old town a wedgie again!"
Like I said earlier, a great film can come from anywhere. Sadly this isn't often the case with straight-to-DVD movies. Nevertheless, there's still some gold hidden amongst all the turds. Until "The Dark Knight," this film was the definitive take on the Joker. Sure, initially when it came out it was cut to ribbons, but when it was released in its uncut form, it really shined indeed.
59) Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World
"Captain's not called Lucky Jack for no reason."
Most people tend to forget this film. Coming out close to "Pirates", this beautiful and high-rollicking high-seas adventure tale for the Oscar-savvy crowd was truly something to ogle at. The beauty of the Galapagos and the brutality of the epic ship battles created a film filled with cognitive dissonance.
60) Green Lantern: First Flight
"Let me tell you, friend. The only way to operate out here is by fear. They hit, I hit harder. They attack, I annihilate. I am the one constant, unassailable force against their chaos and you made them forget that. You think I enjoy this? Look at the universe the Guardians have created. We have the greatest power in the cosmos and what have they made us? Garbage collectors! We pick up the trash."
Need I say more about this film? Nah. Not really. I want to focus on the rest of the entries. You can read more about this film on my column on DC Animated films.
61) The Assassination of Jesse James
"He was ashamed of his persiflage, his boasting, his pretensions of courage and ruthlessness; he was sorry about his cold-bloodedness, his dispassion, his inability to express what he now believed was the case- that he truly regretted killing Jesse, that he missed the man as much as anybody and wished his murder hadn't been necessary."
Beautiful. Simply beautiful. Thank you HD cinema. You finally created something the equivalent of actually being there.
62) Amelie
"It's better to help people than garden gnomes."
A quirky comedy with an irrepressible lead and wonderful characters, this film bottles pure happiness and shares it with the world. It's interesting how it's a stark contrast to the director's earlier works, which have been known for their quirky dark imagery like "Delicatessan" and "City of Lost Children". Well, as the French say, ce la vie.
63) The Life Aquatic
"Don't point that gun at him, he's an unpaid intern."
The most underrated gem from Wes Anderson. Combining Henry Selick's stop-motion animation expertise, a wonderful script by Wes Anderson, and beautiful mise en scene, the film relishes in beauty amongst the crappy, crappy life of Steve Zissou. Bill Murray's career revival from comedian to comedian with existential problems is astounding to watch as it unfurls on screen.
64) The Princess and the Frog
"You sure this is the right blind voodoo lady who lives in the boat in the tree in the bayou?"
The best Disney cell-animated film since "The Lion King", "The Princess and the Frog" is something all children should see. Whereas the message of other Disney films is essentially "find someone rich and get married", the film takes something from "Enchanted" where the message is to get to know someone before you make a commitment. That and hard work goes a long way. Also, some crocodiles carry around a trumpet. Kids will love that one when they go to the Everglades.
65) Before the Devil Knows You're Dead
"We don't want Tiffany's. We want a Mom and Pop operation, in a busy place, on a Saturday when the week's takes go in the safe. We both worked there. We know the safe combinations. We know the burglar alarm signals. We know where everything is. I figure, between the week's take, the jewelry and the cases, the vault, there's a $500,000 haul. I figure probably six. The old dumb old lady that works there, she's alone till noon. She's not going to be a problem."
Sidney Lumet is the hardest working man in showbiz. Making the film in his 80's (holy shit!) it's a wonder to see how incredible the film came out. Some directors retire after they make a couple of bad films in a row. Not Lumet. He still has some great movies in him. Even if this one in particular was perhaps the bleakest I've seen all decade.
66) Good Night and Good Luck
"Good night, and good luck."
Going back to message films, a great one is also one that creates an analogy between the past and the present. "Good Night and Good Luck" is remarkable as it came out during the height of Bush's reign in office and blew a lot of smoke back in his and his fellow Republican's faces. Though a lot of us see the past as the past, it's scary to think that this too may occur again one day. Especially if the current people running the Republican party get in control again.
67) Traffic
"Well, you know, in Mexico, law enforcement is an entrepreneurial activity. Not so much in the states, anyway, we, uh... We hire drivers with nothing and throw a lot of product at the problem. Some gets stopped, enough gets through. It's not difficult. Look, boys, this has worked for years, okay. It's going to continue to work for years."
Showing all aspects of the drug trade from low-level pusher to drug lords to drug czars that, apparently, can't hold their families together, it's as if the film distilled "The Wire" into a 2-hour opus. Mind you, it isn't as great as "The Wire", but it's still incredible to see how intricately plotted the film is by the end of it.
68) O Brother, Where Art Thou?
"So long boys. See you in the funny papers."
Coming off the era of the "Coens can do no wrong", I can see no way how anyone else could've made this film. An adaptation of "The Odyssey" based in the old South was a brilliant move on the Coens part. By taking the myths of the old South and, sometimes literally, burning them to the ground, the Coens essentially demystify what "Gone With the Wind" and other films of that ilk have so carefully crafted as a romantic reading of the old South. Taking a myth to disprove another myth. It's mind-boggling but, then again, it's the Coen Brothers.
69) Gangs of New York
"He ain't earned a death! He ain't a death at my hands! No, he'll walk amongst you marked with shame, a freak worthy of Barnum's Museum of Wonders. God's only man, spared by the Butcher."
Scorsese throughout the late-90's was on a downward spiral. Washed-up some people called him. Then he found Leonardo DiCaprio and, very soon, all was right with the world again. Plus, Daniel Day-Lewis to boot. It's a dirty, rotten picture filled with little sympathetic characters but it really captures history at that point in time.
70) Little Children
"I'm not a nice person."
Films are only as good as the performers in them and the performances in this are all five stars. Stepping back from the deluge of message films, "Little Children" examines the craziness of suburbia. Yeah, there's a lot of films like that, but it doesn't focus on the buildings and the societies surrounding it. It plays up the interpersonal connections and misconnections people make trying to escape it in some way. Even if it means retreating into childhood.
71) The Aviator
"Everybody works for you, Howard."
I take this film as Leonardo DiCaprio's official apology for "Titanic." Showing that really has the stones to act, he surprised me in how incredibly well rounded (and crazy) his interpretation of Howard Hughes was. Some biopics of Hollywood stars tend to focus on the drama and this film is guilty at that in times. However, it's really a great film about how close genius is to madness.
72) The Visitor
"We are not helpless children!"
When I started this film, I thought nothing of it. Then, thirty minutes in, everything changed. Wait, I wrote a review for this too. Check the archives!
73) Lost in Translation
"Can you keep a secret? I'm trying to organize a prison break. I'm looking for, like, an accomplice. We have to first get out of this bar, then the hotel, then the city, and then the country. Are you in or you out?"
How can you go wrong with the stellar chemistry between Bill Murray and Scarlet Johanssen? You really can't. And in Japan. Bill Murray solidified his revival with this film and it really hasn't worn its way through age. The shots of Japan are simply breathtaking at times (as well as the opening shot).
74) Caprica (TV-movie)
"What have you done?"
"Battlestar Galactica" was one of the greatest show revivals ever forged. There's a danger when trying to spin-off a success like that. You sometimes come up with something like the, I don't know, the countless spin-offs of "Stargate". Though, I don't want to confuse you, but this pilot was originally a television-movie and not a show. However, the network found it so good (from research of course and actually watching it) that they gave it a full first season. After watching this, I'd give it a couple of more.
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