LA Movie Review- The Amazing Spider-Man 2

   Peter Parker juggles his romantic life with his crime fighting life while being haunted by the memory of his parents. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is the most emotional and most violent of all of the films in the Spider-man franchise.

   Director Mark Webb has made only one movie outside of his Spider-Man films, and that movie would be 500 Days of Summer. 500 Days of Summer is a great movie which looks at the idea of love from the male perspective. I bring that up because that is what Mark Webb does best. This film is the most romantic superhero movie ever made. Mark Webb handles this element of the film perfectly. The relationship between Peter Parker and Gwen Stacy is undoubtedly the strongest element of the movie. The chemistry between Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone was terrific. You almost didn't need any action in the film because their story would have been enough. Mark Webb makes you care about these characters and makes you believe that they truly care for each other. The film is also surprisingly funny as well. Every few minutes you find yourself laughing out loud at the one of the movie's many jokes. Webb handles those two elements best but fails when juggling multiple story lines. There are a lot of characters in the movie and a lot of them don't get the appropriate amount of screen time. The screenplay written by Alex Kutzman, Jeff Pinker, and Roberto Orci crams a lot of story lines into one movie. These story lines were too much for Webb to carry and as a result many intimate moments were crammed to make room for the next subplot. This made for a very long winded and convoluted film.
   Visually the film is a mixed bag. While all the effects in the film are truly amazing, the cinematography was not. The problem was its inconsistency. Certain action scenes suffered from dreadful shaky cam while others were clear and easy to follow. The film also utilizes just the right amount of slow motion which allows the audience to bask in the glory of being Spider-man, especially in his swinging sequences. The looks of the characters were diverse in quality. The Spider-man suit has never looked better while Electro looked more like an angry cartoon character rather than a terrifying villain.
   Andrew Garfield completely outshines Tobey Macguire. Garfield is the superior Spider-Man on screen. He is charismatic, funny, and serious when he needs to be. Andrew Garfield brought a great emotional depth to the character of Peter Parker. His Peter Parker wasn't necessarily a nerd, but he was clearly intelligent. There was more to him than that. He was a friend, a son, a nephew, a lover, and a hero. Emma Stone was great as Gwen Stacy. She was more than a damsel in distress. She added so much to the film as a character that you want to cheer on. Jamie Foxx played the role of Max Dillon/ Electro. He was given a story arc similar to that of Syndrome, the villain from The Incredibles. Foxx is an obsessed fan of Spider-Man who only wants people to notice him. I found that story to be interesting even though Jamie Foxx is given some laughable dialogue. Dane DeHann is in the film and is a better Harry Osborn than James Franco ever was in the original trilogy. Sally Field isn't in the film much but makes the most of her screen time. Paul Giamatti plays the Rhino and has a very annoying Russian accent. Fortunately his appearance here doesn't take up much time and is mostly a set up for future films.
   The Amazing Spider-Man 2 does suffer from poor pacing but is still an enjoyable film. It is more entertaining than the first film but too many story lines drag down the quality.
3.5/5
   That is the rating the it was going to receive and then the final 15 minutes of the film happened. Those final 15 minutes contained an emotional gut punch of a scene. It was shocking and unexpectedly violent for a superhero movie, especially a Spider-Man movie. The movie then holds you in grief before giving you something completely opposite. As the triumphant Spider-Man theme by Hans Zimmer plays, you are given a great moment of hope that closes out the film. If you end a movie strongly then the audience will forgive you for any missteps earlier in the film. Although it is a very flawed movie, it is also a great piece of entertainment with an abundance of heart.
4/5

LA Movie Review- Transcendence

   Dr. Will Caster is a scientist who is close to creating a new artificial intelligence, one capable of being smarter than the entire population of the world. Threatened by the possibility of Caster creating what could become a God, a terrorist group known as Rift attacks Dr. Caster. Fearing for his life, Will Caster's wife uploads his consciousness into a computer as a way of keeping him alive. Transcendence is directed by Wally Pfister and written by Jack Paglen. The movie stars Johnny Depp as Will Caster, Rebecca Hall as Evelyn  Caster, Morgan Freeman, Cillian Murphy, and Kate Mara as the leader of Rift.

   This is Wally Pfister's first time as a director, he has primarily worked as a cinematographer. He worked on such films as The Dark Knight Trilogy, Memento, Moneyball and even won an Academy Award for Inception. Jack Paglen has never written a screenplay before this one. So what you have is a first time director directing a screenplay written by a first time writer. The combination of these elements make for a very lackluster film. That saddens me to say because not only was I looking forward to this movie, I also really wanted to see Wally Pfister succeed as a director. He made a movie with interesting ideas that ultimately go nowhere. The first third is the point at which the film peaked. It contains topics of morality which are interesting but at the same time there are little red flags in the beginning which are cringe worthy. You hope the film will get past them and continue to tell a compelling story but it never does. After the first third the film was moving very slowly and wrapped itself up with an unsatisfying finale. This film's science fiction element isn't anything we haven't seen before. Even the love story doesn't hit as strongly as it could have. The fact that the love story fails is a major reason why the movie isn't good. The love story between Johnny Depp and Rebecca Hall is supposed to be the soul of the film and when that along with the sci-fi  isn't connecting you get a dry film. 

   Johnny Depp can be a terrific actor when he wants to be. Unfortunately here, the screenplay just doesn't allow that as he is essentially playing a computer. Rebecca Hall tries but her relationship with the computer just doesn't work unlike in the film Her, where a man falls in love with his operating system. The difference is in that film the operating system had a personality. In Transcendence we have Johnny Depp who has no personality at all for most of the film. It takes two to tango and as much as Rebecca Hall tries, the rule remains true. Kate Mara plays the leader of the terrorist group who believes Will Caster should be stopped. Once again, Kate Mara tries and the screenplay tries to make her a formidable opponent but you never really buy that. If the screenplay was better it would have expressed what the audience was thinking and that was that her character didn't have a snowball's chance in hell of victory. Cillian Murphy plays an FBI agent who along with Morgan Freeman is trying to stop this new Artificial Intelligence. Cillian Murphy as talented as he is brought nothing to this movie. I don't believe that's his fault either, there was just nothing to his character. The same goes for Morgan Freeman who had nothing to do in the movie. The once exception to all of this is Paul Bettnay who plays a scientist who was a friend of Dr. Caster. Paul was good in the film as he was a character who you understood and could get behind.

   There are good things about the film. Wally Pfister made a good looking film with the help of cinematographer Jess Hall. Jack Paglen raised some interesting ideas in the beginning of the film.  The other two thirds of the film really bring the quality down. It isn't helped by a one-note Johnny Depp and a cast that is mostly underwritten. This could have been a great sci-fi movie but unfortunately Transcendence  falls flat on too many levels.

2.5/5 

LA Movie Review- Captain America: The Winter Soldier

   When Captain America discovers that the line between freedom and fear is becoming more blurred than ever, he'll become a fugitive as he takes on corruption while battling his ever-haunting past.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier is the newest film to be a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It is however unlike any of the previous films that exist within that universe. This film doesn't fit into the superhero genre. It transcends it. Captain America II is an action filled political thriller that takes you on an incredible journey.
   Directors Anthony and Joe Russo's film is a game changer for the Marvel cinematic universe. They directed a film which contains the fun of previous Marvel movies while managing to take itself more seriously than any of the other Marvel movies. The brothers Russo seemed like an odd choice to direct this film as they have primarily directed sitcoms such  as Community and Arrested Development. They did a tremendous job with this film. They did a great job of building up tension in scenes that demanded it. There were plenty of moments where I believed characters would die. They took me right into their world and made me believe anything could happen in it. The action sequences were the strongest element of the movie. They were shockingly good. I don't mean in a way suggesting that I assumed they would be bad. I was shocked by how much they raised the bar with their action scenes as they are absolutely incredible. Every punch, kick, and throwing of a shield is hard hitting. The film has some truly intense moments during these scenes which make them all the more better. The tone set by the brothers is fun and exciting. The screenplay they directed ensured that their Marvel film would stick out from the others.
   Christopher Markus Stephen Mcfeely wrote the screenplay based on themes of trust and betrayal. They clearly have something to say about today's world and they say it through this film. Aside from their clear message on freedom, they also did a good job handling the characters. There are some scenes that don't work as well as you want them to. They don't hurt the film in a major way, but they still do hurt it. Aside from a few hiccups they do an exceptional job. They along with the brothers Russo did a great job of making this film feel like a political espionage type thriller.
   Chris Evans was great as Steve Rogers/Captain America. Evans has the unique role of playing a patriot from the past in today's world. You sense that freedom runs through this man's veins. Scarlett Johansson is given much more to due with her character in this film. She has a larger role than previous films an with it she is  funny, fierce, and a friend to Cap. She is quite good in the role of Black Widow, who is an ever growing character. Samuel L. Jackson's Nick Fury is also expanded upon in the film. He has trust issues like Bruce Banner has anger issues. There are also several new additions to the cast. Alexander Pierce is a new character in the film. He's a powerful and cunning individual played by the legendary Robert Redford. Anthony Mackie is a fun addition to the cast as Falcon, Captain America's partner. Sebastian Stan plays the mysterious Winter Soldier. He was a villain done right. He has great screen presence. He was a deadly character who was a legitimate threat to favorite shield carrying hero.
   The first superhero film of the year has set a high bar for those who follow it. This film has a relevant message and a layered plot with unparalleled action. This sequel raises the stakes to an unexpected level and is a guaranteed great time at the movies. The Russo brothers have delivered a film that in my opinion is as good as The Avengers. 
4.8/5

LA Movie Review- Noah

  

   Noah is a man chosen by God to see that the good in the world survives a forthcoming flood. To fulfill that responsibility Noah must build an ark, fend off armies, and make incredibly difficult moral decisions. Darren Aronofsky directs the film based on a screenplay that he co-wrote with Ari Handel.

   This is first and foremost Darren Aronofsky's film. Aronofsky takes creative control and he doesn't entirely follow the Noah story from the bible. Nor should he have. This is his take on the story and he does not need to limit the plot to what occurs on the pages. He expands on it, goes in different directions, and tells the story that he wanted to tell. The story he tells is very good. The way he tells the story places it on a massive scope, that you as an audience member feel from the beginning. He creates this strange and unfamiliar world that feels as though it exists outside of time. He fills it with things images and ideas you couldn't possibly imagine. His vision is unlike any recent biblical film.
   Noah contains the flavor of a war movie and even dips into the disaster film, making for a compelling drama, whose's tone is gritty and at times adventurous. All of that is blended into a film led by Russel Crowe.

   Russel Crowe is an immensely talented actor. He is given much to do in the role of Noah. He has to portray a father, a husband, and a defender. It isn't anything Crowe can't handle. He's terrific in the role of titular character. He is a man whose' faith is intact so much so, that he would do even the most unspeakable things for his creator. He's almost haunted by God and the responsibilities God has entrusted to him. Russel Crowe gives a great performance. Jennifer Connelly plays Noah's wife and she too is great in the film. You never doubt her because of what she brings to her performance. As Noah is in touch with God, his humanity fades in favor of the greater good. That's where Connelly adds to the film. She is the human side of Noah. She helps us connect to him because of how easy it is to connect with her character. Emma Watson is good in the film but she does take some adjusting too. When she first appears all you see is Emma Watson instead of the character. That all changes when her character arc is revealed, allowing you to buy into her as an important part of the film. Logan Lerman plays Noah's middle child, a character who has a sense of disconnect from his family. While at times selfish and cowardly, you always understand Lerman and the motivation for his actions. Ray Winstone plays the antagonist, a king who takes what he wants whenever he wants. The key to a good villain is that in their eyes they aren't a villain. This element is found in Winstone's character. Anthony Hopkins appears in a small but enjoyable role in the film as Noah's grandfather.
   The film is visually stunning. It was shot by cinematographer Matthew Libatique who also shot Black Swan and the first two Iron Man movies. The film's score has an epic feel to it, that was composed by one of my favorite composers, Clint Mansel. The screenplay by Ari Handel and Aronofsky is a compelling one. The writers flesh out each character and build toward moments with  weight and meaning. But there are moments where the film feels as though it loses its footing. Particularly between the first and second half of the film. The first focuses on the imminent flood while the second focuses especially on decisions of the family. The film is also quite long and doesn't end as strongly as it could have. The first half was more entertaining than the second half but the second half was more compelling than the first. That doesn't change the fact that Noah is a great film that was directed by a talented filmmaker.
4.3/5

LA Movie Review- Non-Stop

   An air marshall is put to the test when he receives text messages from an unknown passenger threatening to kill someone every twenty minutes unless they receive $150 million. The air marshall must try to keep the passengers alive while looking for the murder in the middle of a transatlantic flight. Liam Neeson's career as an action hero continues with this mystery-thriller.
   This movie really surprised me. It was less action, more suspense. I liked that about it. This movie really took its time in creating a suspenseful environment. It does a good job setting up possible suspects just like any other mystery. In the vein of 2011's Source Code, it takes advantage of the element of time and uses it efficiently as a way of creating a sense of panic and tension. Director Jaume Collet-Sera makes an enjoyable movie. Most of the time, I would be upset if the director chooses to use shaky cam for the action sequences but by placing the movie in such a compact setting, it makes sense.
   Liam Neeson plays the air marshall, who is being framed as a high jacker. Like all Neeson characters this one is smart, resourceful, and threatening. He does what Liam Neeson does and  that's always fun to watch. Julianne Moore is the female lead and she's fine in the movie. Recent best supporting actress winner Lupita Nyong'o is in the movie and has absolutely nothing to do. The rest of the cast is good, with no real standouts.
    Non-Stop is a good addition to the Liam Neeson archive of action. By no means is it perfect but it is an entertaining popcorn flick. This movie gave me exactly what I wanted from it.
3.7/5

LA Movie Review- 300: Rise of an Empire

 *Warning, there are spoilers for 300 in this review*

   Greek general Themistokles attempts to band together the rest of Greece in an effort to stop the conquering God-King, Xerxes. Noam Murro takes over the directing reigns from Zack Snyder in this prequel/sequel to 300.
   300 was known for its graphic novel-inspired visuals, slow motion, and bloody action. While Rise of an Empire has all of that, it is missing an essential element- a hero we can root for. The characters are more important than the story. If you don't care about the characters then you won't care about their story. That is the biggest problem that this movie has. In 300 we saw the life of King Leonidas from his birth to his death. We knew all there was to know about the character. In this film we learn very little about General Themistokles. There was nothing particularly special about him. In fact, it would have been impossible to differentiate between him or any of the soldiers if they didn't stick a blue cape on him. Sullivan Stapleton plays the generic general who just makes you long for Gerard Butler as Leonidas. Eva Green, however, is just the opposite. She overshadows Xerxes as the true villain of the story, Artemisia. Her performance is the best part of the movie. Eva's character is a damaged individual who is as manipulate as she is deadly. Eva really plays up the damaged part and makes you care about her character the most.
    Visually this film is similar to the original. Everything appears to have been shot on a green screen. The movie is just as violent and bloody as expected. The action for the most part looks good, but at times feels like a video game. The constant slow motion and CGI blood ensures that.
   The screenplay was written by Zack Snyder and Kurt Johnstad. It replaces most of the land action from the first one with naval battles. It feels unnecessary, but to their credit it was something we had never before seen in this world. Their screenplay is a generic one, which includes plot holes and rewrites the ending of the first movie. You read that correctly. They changed the ending from 300, which in my opinion, was much superior to the one it was replaced with. That film ended with10,000 Spartans commanding 30,0000 Greeks into battle against Xerxes' army. Apparently that wasn't good enough so they changed it in favor of something less hopefull.
   300: Rise of an Empire is not as entertaining as 300. It isn't everything you loved about the first but does have some of those things. The movie definitely benefits from Eva Green's performance, but it doesn't change the fact that this is a disappointing movie. If you turn your brain off then you may be able to find enjoyment in this movie. 300 set the bar high and this movie just didn't hit it.
3/5

LA Movie Review- The Wolf of Wall Street

     Based on a true story, The Wolf of Wall Street tells the tale of Jordan Belfort, a stock broker who creates his own  business, Stratton Oakmont. Jordan Belfort lives a life full of money, drugs, and sex. Martin Scorsese directs Leonardo Dicaprio and Jonah Hill in a film that is an instant classic. 

   "Stratton Oakmont is America"- Jordan Belfort. In all of its glory and decadence, it just may be. I believe Scorsese had that in his mind as he perfectly directed this fantastic story of rise and fall. Mr. Belfort is a man of multiple addictions and he will do whatever it takes to fulfill them. Jordan's confidence takes him through penny stocks, into his own firm, and allow him to emerge as The Wolf of Wall Street.

   Leonardo Dicaprio brings life to the  junkie. He delivers a performance layered with charisma and narcissism. This is a truly memorable character as he is the epitome of everything that is immoral. He's funny, smart, and selfish. Some moments do shine a light at some of the good within him but it doesn't change the fact that he is a terrible person. Leonardo Dicaprio proves that he is one of the best in the world at what he does with this performance. Jonah Hill plays Donnie Azoff, Belfort's right hand man. Hill is very funny as the bumbling stock broker. He has some great moments and really adds to the film. Margott Robbie's break out role is that of Jordan's mistress and second wife. Robbie brings presence to the screen while holding her own on screen with Dicaprio. Rob Reiner is funny in a supporting role and Matthew McConaughey steals a scene early in the film.

   Martin Scorsese directs a great script from Terence Winter. Some people may complain that the film is too long but there isn't one scene I would have cut out. Watching this film you feel that Scorsese was confident in his experience because of how bold this is. This is such a well made and engrossing film that its three hour running time flies by. 

   The Wolf of Wall Street is a great film that in my opinion was the best of 2013.

5/5