Friday, April 30, 2010

Attention All LAMBs: The 2010 LAMMYS ARE HERE!



This post goes out to all the LAMBs and all soon to be LAMBs.

(Note: If you're a film blogger, you should definitely check out The Large Association of Movie Blogs (aka The LAMB) and consider joining. It's a great resource and great way to network with other film bloggers and find new film blogs. Plus, you'll be able to get the word out on your film blog once you join with a special introductory post. Mine can be found here).

The 2010 LAMMYS ARE HERE! And, it's nomination time again.

To all the LAMBs out there, I thought I'd post up my
"For Your Consideration" (FYC) ad:



Thanks for your consideration!

p.s. If you know any other LAMBs out there and enjoy my blog, feel free to pass this along. Thanks for your support!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

My 15 Minute Rule



Many times, I've had people ask me the same question over and over again - "What makes a good movie?"

So, I thought I'd go over my general rule of thumb - "My 15 Minute Rule."

Basically, when I go into a film I give it 15 minutes to get my attention and get me interested. Think of of it more like an audition.

When you go in to audition for a role (i.e. movie, play, etc) you're only given a small amount of time to do your thing and capture the attention of the director. So, it's got to be good. And, yes - you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

So, that's how I approach my movie watching experience. If the film does not capture my attention in 15 minutes max, then I know it's really not going to be that great of a movie.

(Note: This is a general rule of thumb. Some may argue there have been good movies that get better after the first 15 minutes. Though, this has been my general experience).

For a movie to be great (in my opinion), it must capture the audience from the beginning. Period. There must be a reason for the audience to keep wanting to watch more. And, that reason usually boils down to one word - conflict.

Without conflict, there is not much reason to keep watching. Let's face it, as humans we love conflict - drama is what gets us going. And, this drama caused by conflict stirs up controversy which makes us curious. And, we all know the saying - "Curiosity kills the cat."

It's this "curiosity" that makes us want to watch more. And, a movie that can makes us want to watch more makes for a good movie. Why?

Without interest and the "want" to see more, there is no reason for us to keep watching. It's the mystery and the intrigue that really keeps us interested. And, this interest is because we care - we care what happens because of the conflict and the drama.

Here are a couple clips of some movies I've picked out. See if you can test out "My 15 Minute Rule." Does it pass the test?



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I hope "My 15 Minute Rule" will help others see my thought process in evaluating and determining a good movie. I've used "My 15 Minute Rule" time and time again - it's worked for me.

In the end, it's all about entertainment. And, a movie that is entertaining is one definitely worth watching.

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Monday, April 26, 2010

Indie Film Trailer - Banksy

Since it's Indie Movie Monday (#IndieMM), I thought I'd post up this indie film trailer, "Banksy." (I first found out about this indie film from my tweep @FilmCourage (thank you!) I thought this article on the film was especially interesting. Check it out!

"Exit Through the Gift Shop, the first film by renowned graffiti artist Banksy, became the hottest ticket at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival where it made its world debut. Banksy is a graffiti artist with a global reputation whose work can be seen on walls from post—hurricane New Orleans to the separation barrier on the Palestinian West Bank. Fiercely guarding his anonymity to avoid prosecution, Banksy has so far resisted all attempts to be captured on film. Exit Through the Gift Shop tells the incredible true story of how an eccentric French shop keeper turned documentary maker attempted to locate and befriend Banksy, only to have the artist turn the camera back on its owner with spectacular results. The film contains exclusive footage of Banksy, Shepard Fairey, Invader and many of the worlds most infamous graffiti artists at work, on walls and in interview. As Banksy describes it, Its basically the story of how one man set out to film the un—filmable. And failed."

Note: For more info on the film, check out the website. Thanks for reading!

(p.s. If you have a project(s) you'd like me to check out (i.e. fan trailer, short, spoof, animation, etc), feel free to contact me here or through my Facebook Page. I'm always on the lookout for fresh stuff from emerging filmmakers!)



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Saturday, April 24, 2010

Hot Tub Time Machine (2010)



"The tub is some kind of energy vortex, like a black hole but instead of being in space it's, you know, in a hot tub."

- Hot Tub Time Machine


Back in this last post, I had mentioned how I was still up in the air about this film. But, I finally caved in and saw it - I'm glad I did.

(Note: For those who saw it and compared the movie to "The Hangover", I'd just like to say - it was very close. This film is similar in nature, though I still think "The Hangover" is a bit more funnier - both films are very close in terms of the "funny" radar).

Let me just start off by saying that this movie has a lot of messy situations. By messy, I mean both literally and figuratively (If you've seen the film, you know what I mean). The first scene really set the tone of the film - it's definitely a great start to a film full of memorable moments.

(Note: If anyone out there plans to see the movie, I'd highly advise not to have a heavy meal beforehand especially for those (like me) who have a weak stomach. Again, this film can get very messy at times. Though, it all contributes to the story and for a good time).

The title of the film and the quote above says it all - it is about a hot tub that can transport you back into time. (Kind of like this movie, hot tub style!) But, it's a little more than that.

Since the first scene of the movie, I was really entertained - I kept wanting to see more. The film starts out by setting the story and introducing the main characters (who are all college friends) and their backgrounds. One day, an important event takes place that brings them all together.

This event makes them realize how long it's been since they've all been together. And, it also reminds them of the good times they had while in college. Being together, made these college buddies yearn for those "good old" days. So, they decided to go on a group trip and therefore. the start of a new adventure - "The Hot Tub Time Machine".

(Note: Since I'm not big on spoilers, I'd rather not say too much about the plot of the film and how they came to find "The Hot Tub Time Macine," - it all makes for an interesting story).

When back in time (aka 1986), I really enjoyed the references of the time period and the whole "Back to the 80s" look and feel.

One of my favorite scenes was when they first arrived and Nick (played by Craig Robinson) kept making observations that something wasn't right. There were too many references to the past - Super Mario Bros, leg warmers, Ronald Reagan, Alf, etc. It was truly a funny moment. I don't want to spoil it for you, but let's just say it definitely brought back memories and set the tone of the time period.

Apart from the humor, this movie is really about second chances. And, it's about the opportunities that come up in life that give you second chances.

Though, it's up to you to take those chances. Either you can continue to live life the way you do, or you can seize the moment and take the opportunity to change and make your life better.

In the end, it's about doing things that you wish you did in the past, and taking the time to do them today - right here, right now in the present. No matter how long it's been, it's never too late.

Overall, I enjoyed the film - it really kept me laughing throughout. There were a lot of really outrageous and funny moments in the movie - it definitely kept me entertained. Plus, it had a message. And, a film that entertains yet also has a message to say is definitely one worth watching.

If you're in the mood for a comedy type film, I highly recommend this one.

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For another perspective on the movie, check out the following review link from my tweep and fellow Filmgirl Force friend:

Action Flick Chick - Review Link

p.s. If you've joined my Facebook Page already, I just wanted to say "thanks" for your support. If you know anyone else who may have an interest in film and movies, feel free to send them over. Thanks!



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Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Where the Wild Things Are (2009)



When this film first came out based on the children's book by Maurice Sendak, I was really excited. Unfortunately, I was unable to catch it at the theater. Though, I'm glad I missed it - this film was a real disappointment.

(Word of caution: In general, I don't really review bad films unless I feel strongly about it. This one is one of those exceptions).

Let me just say for the record, I am a fan of the book. As a kid, I remember reading this book and really enjoyed it. This is why I was so excited when I heard the film was coming out. Since I'm a fan of the book, it just made sense to go out and want to see the movie.

From the very beginning, there was a lot of violence and anger presented in the film. Even the opening scene started out violent - it was truly shocking. And, what is even more shocking is the fact that many parents (who were fans of the book and thought this film was a movie for children) brought their children to go see the film.

(Note: If you read some of the reviews online, there are many parents who have voiced their opinion about the level of violence in the movie. From watching the trailer, this doesen't seem like a violent type of movie - it seems more like a children movie. Though, in reality it's not).

The film centers around the life of a young boy, Max (played by Max Records), who seems very lonely (he's not much of a people person as he seems not to have many friends) and is dealing with parental issues (mainly his mother played by Catherine Keener).

All throughout the movie, Max seems to have a major issue with anger - he is angry all the time. And, it's not quite clear where and/or why this anger is coming from. It's almost as if you have to just accept (without knowing where and/or why) that this kid has anger issues.

For me, this anger issue Max possessed didn't really do it for me. For me to understand and care about this character, I really needed to know why and where this anger was coming from - it was just never revealed in the film. It seemed like they just wanted you to accept that he had this anger complex but not ask why.

(Note: If you are a parent (as there are parents out there who read this blog), I would strongly caution against some of the scenes in the film - they are very violent especially for small children).

The rest of the story focuses on Max running away and sailing to a far off island. When he arrives, he is excited and scared at the same time - excited to be in a new environment but scared of the unknown. And, he does meet the unknown - a group of "mythical like" creatures.

At first, Max is unsure of these new creatures and their intentions. Though, over time he befriends them and gets to know them - it's almost as if he found a new family. As Max spends more time with the creatures, more and more it seems as if he did find a new family - one that accepted him.

Though, there are points in the film where adult type issues are presented among the creatures (even in this world). And, there were times when the creatures did not accept Max anymore - just as he was not accepted in the real world.

And, I guess this movie is really about acceptance and finding your place in the world. Since Max had few friends, he did not feel like he had a place in the real world. So, he attempted to escape and seek refuge in the imaginary world. Though, he still did not find his place in the imaginary world. So, Max finds himself retreating back to the real world.

(Note: As I watched this movie, I really thought this kid had some major anger and behavioral issues. It was a bit comical that he wasn't even accepted into the imaginary world. It was almost as if the mythical creatures he met and befriended could not really function and deal with his anger issues. It was quite an interesting dynamic).

Overall, I was disappointed with the film. It lacked presentation and a sense of focus - it was all over the place. The dialogue was very dry - many scenes involved too much talking with no real purpose and/or sense of direction. It felt like they just put these scenes in and threw the dialogue together without much thought as to the purpose and how it fits into the overall picture.

However, I felt the storyline was there - it just wasn't presented well. Though, I did enjoy some of the music in the film - some of the songs were very unique and enjoyable. But, that's about it.

If you've been contemplating seeing this film, I don't really recommend it. It's just not very well executed - it lacked focus. And, if you have children (especially small ones) it's definitely not a children and/or family type movie.

If you really want to see this movie, it would be best if you either borrowed it (for free) at the library or from a friend who has the DVD. Overall, it just wasn't that great.

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: FAIL

(Note: For all the fans of the film, these are just my thoughts - it just didn't do it for me).

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!



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Monday, April 19, 2010

Seinfeld Horror Trailer

Since it's Indie Movie Monday (#IndieMM), I thought I'd post up this trailer spoof based on the popular series put together by Day By Day Productions. (For any horror fans out there, I think you'll really enjoy this one - it's put together and cut in true horror fashion). Check it out!

"Kramer has become a serial killer in this suspense filled horror movie".

(p.s. If you have a project(s) you'd like me to check out (i.e. fan trailer, short, spoof, animation, etc), feel free to contact me here or through my Facebook Page. I'm always on the lookout for fresh stuff from emerging filmmakers!)



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Saturday, April 17, 2010

Kick-Ass (2010)



"At some point in our lives, we all want to be a superhero."

- Kick-Ass


When I first saw the trailer for this movie, I really didn't have high hopes for it. I ended up seeing this on a whim in my quest for a film outing. (It was either this or "Hot Tub Time Machine." And, I'm still up the air on that one).

So, I decided to give this one a go. I'm glad I did.

Let me just say, the title of the film says it all. It was definitely a "kick a$$" kind of movie. It rocked. And, it rocked hard.

Going into the film, I thought it would be all about the main character, Dave, (aka "Kick-Ass" played by Aaron Johnson) - just a regular "geeky" kind of guy trying to find his purpose in life. And, he found his purpose through his alter ego, "Kick-Ass," a pseudo "comic book" type character.

But, the film took a turn and really surprised me. It wasn't until a new character was introduced (aka "HG") that really caught my attention - it made the movie worthwhile. (I don't want to ruin it for you, but let's just say introducing "HG" into the film really made it a "kick a$$" kind of movie. Without this character, I don't think the film would have been that great).

(Note: The first scene where this character gets introduced is very shocking - I couldn't believe this was put in the movie. Though, I was glad it turned out "ok." If you've seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about).

Though the movie centers around those who enjoy comic books (if you're a comic book fan, you'll definitely be able to relate), this film is not just for comic book lovers.

It's definitely an entertaining film. (For all the parents out there, I have to warn you - there's a lot of violence in the movie so it may not be suitable for small children).

As for the story, it really came together. It's one of those stories where characters get introduced as the movie progresses, which add to the overall plot of the film.

While watching the movie, I kept wanting to know how these different characters were related. I kept asking myself, "How do they fit in with the overall story?" It really kept me going. And, I wanted to see more.

And, more I got. There was a point in the film (near the end), where I thought the movie would end with a possible "to be continued" sequel type ending. (In general, I don't really like films that end without closure - just not my style). Though, this was not the case - the film did not disappoint. It really ended with a bang. A really big bang.

(Note: If you've seen the film, I really enjoyed the last scene especially the references (quotes) to some very famous movies - definitely added to the momentum and gave the movie a punch!)

Personally, I don't really consider myself that much of a comic book type person. (I have enjoyed some films based on comic book characters). However, this film really surprised me. It was very entertaining throughout - I enjoyed it very much.

Though it was mostly an action type movie, there were bits of comedy mixed in. I found many of the scenes to be quite entertaining - the dialogue was great. (If you've seen the movie, you'll know what I'm talking about).

Overall, I enjoyed the film very much. The storyline, the dialogue, the characters, the action scenes, the music - it really made for a very fun and entertaining movie to watch.

If you're in the mood for an action type film, I highly recommend this one - it's definitely "Kick-A$$!"

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

(Note: For another perspective on the movie, check out the following review from my tweep and fellow Filmgirl Force friend:

Action Flick Chick - Review Link

p.s. For those of you who have seen the film, I'd definitely be interested in hearing about your favorite character (mine was "HG".) Comments are always welcome. Feel free to leave comments on any post here and/or my Facebook Page, thanks for reading!

p.s.s. If you've seen the film, click here for a cool trailer clip. Enjoy!



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Wednesday, April 14, 2010

1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die



With my interest in film, I was in the bookstore one day when this book caught my eye.

I guess the title had something to do with it - it's pretty catchy and hard to miss. As I looked among the other movie review books in the film section, this one stood out.

So, now I've got it. And, I've decided to integrate my film reviews with the book every time I see and do a review on a film listed.

Going through the book, it's very easy to read and straight forward. I'm not sure if anyone here has read any film review books (such as this one), but for me personally I haven't really read a good one in a long time.

In many cases, I remember finding the reviews in prior film review books I've read to be quite dry with not many pictures included. Also, when I'm looking for a film to watch I prefer reading reviews that are very straight forward and easy to understand.

This book goes in historical order with it's list, starting with films in the early 1900s and ending with films in the late 2000s. Also, there is a checklist in the front of the book with the entire "1001 film list" so you can check off each film as you see them, pretty neat!

The first film on the list is "Le Voyage Dans La Lune" (A Trip to the Moon), which was made in 1902. And, the last film on the list is "Atonement", which was made in 2007.

Each film has it's own dedicated page. It showcases the year the film was made, the specs on the films (i.e. country where it was made, director, producer, screenplay, cast, etc), along with a snapshot pic from the movie and of course - the review.

With each review, it describes in detail why the movie is important (to be on the list) and it's effect on society and the filmmaking industry at the time it was made.

Since I enjoy history, it's interesting for me to read about the history and timeline of each film. It's even more interesting to read about how and why each film is unique in it's own way, thus making the top "1000 movie list".

So, this will be part of my movie watching journey that I'll be sharing with you. I haven't quite figured out how I'm going to pick out the movies to see.

I thought of choosing each film at random (such as opening the book and writing a review on whatever film the page turns to). However, I think I'm going to just play it by ear and review films on the list as they come up and as I watch them.

If you're interested in film and it's history, you might just want to check out this book. As I understand, it does get updated from time to time (there are older versions - I picked up the latest one).

If you'd like to check out the entire list, you can find it here.

Looking through my movie reviews so far, the first film that I've found on the list can be found here. With each review on the list, I will label each post with the "1001 movies" tag.

If there's a movie you've seen on the list that's one of your favorites and/or you've done a review on one, I'd definitely like to hear about it!

Happy movie watching!

p.s. Feel free to leave comments on any post either here and/or my Facebook Page. Comments are always welcome, thanks for reading!

Monday, April 12, 2010

Indie Film Pitch - Cerise




Since it's Indie Movie Monday (#IndieMM), I thought I'd post up this indie film pitch from my tweep, John Trigonis, for his upcoming short film project "Cerise". Check it out!

"39 year old Josh Kermes’ life is thrown into disarray when the director of the tutoring center he tutors for hires some new help despite tough times. His name is Shivam Shah, and he happens to be the person who won the spelling bee Josh had lost many years ago. Chaos and competition ensues in this quirky short dramedy, and culminates in an ultimate showdown between man and word: Will Josh overcome the word that took him down?

So far, I’ve saved about $10,000 of my own money from teaching humanities and creative writing courses at universities across NJ as an adjunct instructor.

Perks for donating range from a social media shout out ($10), T-shirts and signed DVDs ($50) to Associate Producer ($100) or Executive Producer ($500) credit in the film and exclusive invites to the set and private screenings of Cerise."


Note: For more info on the film, check out the website. Thanks for reading!

(p.s. If you have a project(s) you'd like me to check out (i.e. fan trailer, short, spoof, animation, etc), feel free to contact me here or through my Facebook Page. I'm always on the lookout for fresh stuff from emerging filmmakers!)



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Saturday, April 10, 2010

I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell



"God, I hope they serve beer in hell."

- I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell


Lately, I've been in a comedy type mood so I decided to check out this film based on the book. (If anyone's read the book, I'd definitely be interested in hearing what you think).

(Note: I'm sure some of you are thinking about how ridiculous the title sounds. But, then again so was "Hot Tub Time Machine" and from what I've heard, it's a very funny and entertaining film).

Ok, so you're probably all wondering why a girl like me would be interested in a film like this, it's obviously a guy movie. Well, it actually surprised me.

The film is based on a true story about a guy, Tucker Max, and his adventures as the opposite sex with his buddies. I remember picking up the book at the bookstore one day. Though it had a ridiculous sounding title, it intrigued me.

I remember actually picking up the book and taking the time to skim it over. As a member of the female gender, I'm sure the material would be highly offensive to some women here. Though, I found it to be rather entertaining. So, when I was deciding on a movie to see this one came to mind.

Going into the film, I didn't really have high expectations for it. I mean, come on. A film about a guy and his buddies partying it up and having a good time? What came to my mind was a lot of partying, debauchery, beer, and women. Guess what? I was right.

There was a lot of partying, debauchery, beer and women in the film. But, it came at a cost. And, this is the essence of the message of the film. (What, you say, there's a message? Yes, read on).

This film is really about change. And, being able to deal and cope with change. Things do not always stay the same. And, sometimes when we encounter change it feels uncomfortable and we resist.

So, the resistance to change is really where this film starts out. We have 3 main characters. Tucker Max, played by Matt Czuchry, who is the very stereotypical "party type" kind of guy. Then, there is Dan, his best friend, played by Geoff Stults, who plays the "good type" kind of guy. And, then there's Drew, played by Jesse Bradford, the cynical but very intelligent guy (who loves sci-fi and video games).

Here's a pic of the real Tucker Max:



Always together, these 3 friends have a close and many times, party going, relationship like no other. And, yes there is always many, many parties to seek out.

Though, this film is not just about partying. It's not just about beer and women. It's a movie about change. Big change.

And, being able to deal with big changes in our lives is something we all face. Everyone has a different way of coping with change - some can cope better than others. And, this is where the film takes its toll - it presents the different ways each character deals with change in their lives.

Since this is a comedy, I knew there would probably be a couple of funny moments in the film.

Let me just say, this film was hilarious! There were a lot of funny scenes and situations the characters got into. I don't want to spoil it for you, but let's just say a lot of these scenes got messy. Really messy. (If you've seen the movie, you know what I'm talking about).

Though, it was not all fun and games with this film. Towards the end, it really did have a more serious tone - it really took a look at life and the effect change can have on people.

At the end, it really showed this. I really enjoyed the speech, Tucker Max, gave at the end. It was truly heart warming. I don't want to spoil it for you, but let me just say what he said surprised me. (If you've seen the film, you know what I'm talking about).

Overall, I enjoyed the film. I was entertained throughout the movie. The story, the characters, the dialogue - they all really came together to make this an enjoyable film to watch.

If you're in the mood for a comedy type movie, I definitely recommend this one. Check it out!

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: PASS

p.s. For those who joined my Facebook Page, I've posted up a very special "thank you" message just for you. (Hope you like my little gift!) Thanks for your support!



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Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Movie Preview - Eat, Pray, Love



When I first heard this book being turned into a movie from my tweep's, @ReelTalker, blog post, I really got excited. I got so excited, I went out looking for the book - I am in the process of reading the book now.

This looks like one of those movies that really has a great story to share. And, great stories always include great adventures.

(Note: I am wondering if my tweep, @Clarabela, at Just Chick Flicks is interested in this movie as well. I feel it may be a very relatable film for many women (and also men perhaps).

Here's the trailer:



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And, here is a video with Elizabeth Gilbert (the author of the book) talking about "Eat, Pray, Love":



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For those of you who are fans of the book, Elizabeth Gilbert does have a new book out which can be considered more of a sequel. Here's a video with her discussing it. Enjoy!

p.s. If you've seen the trailer and/or read the book, I would definitely like to hear your thoughts. Feel free to post up your comments here and/or on my Facebook page.

Thanks for reading, looking forward to connecting with you!

Monday, April 5, 2010

Indie Filmmaker Web Series - Confessions of an Independent Filmmaker

Since it's Indie Movie Monday (#IndieMM), I thought I'd post up a trailer for this web series I've been watching lately, "Confessions of an Independent Filmmaker." It's pretty neat and entertaining, check it out!

"I'm really making an indie feature film and taking YouTube along the way. Watch my every step and mistake. Learn what to do and not to do when you make YOUR movie!"

Note: For more info on the project, check out the website. Thanks for reading!

(p.s. If you have a project(s) you'd like me to check out (i.e. fan trailer, short, spoof, animation, etc), feel free to contact me. I'm always on the lookout for fresh stuff from emerging filmmakers!)



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Saturday, April 3, 2010

Clash of the Titans (2010)



"A new era has begun, the era of man."

- Clash of the Titans


Since Greek mythology a topic that interests me, I was really excited to see this film remake based on the original movie.

Going into the film, I did not see the original beforehand. I'm glad that I didn't. (If you've seen the original, there have been a couple characters and things that have changed in the remake. Though, most of the themes and basic plot remain the same).

Before I go into the movie, I'm going to say that this is not a film for everyone. If you're not really into Greek mythology and history per se (or are a fan of the original movie), this may not be as much of an entertaining film for you.

(Note: The reason I say this is because there is some reference to Greek mythology as far as the history and myth, which tie into the story. If you're not really a fan of the genre, it just might not be as interesting to you as for others who are).

In the beginning, it goes into the story on how the Titans were overthrown and how the Olympians came into power, which also ties in to how "man" was created (i.e. by Zeus).

Then, it goes into how man is viewed as inferior to the Olympians (aka the Gods), and how man is subject to worship and obey their laws. This then goes into the story of a new era, the era of men, men who have had enough of being subjected and inferior to the Gods. It becomes a story of rebellion, of struggle, and lastly, of hope.

It's also a story of identity. As the main character, Perseus, played by Sam Worthington, struggles with his search for his own identity. (I don't want to ruin it for you, but let's just say it really is a struggle for him mentally as he just doesen't seem to fit in and be able to find his place in society).

After the mood of the story has been set and main characters introduced, the film really starts to become a real epic adventure. As the audience, we are drawn in to the journey Perseus and his men must face - it really is a roller coaster ride of a time encountering many different strange and mythical creatures.

While watching the battle scenes, it felt just like a video game while battling various and monstrous creatures. As the audience, I felt like I was right in the battlefield and the action.

(Note: I did not see this in 3D. Though, I can only imagine the effect it could have watching this film in 3D during the battle scenes - they were very well done, lots of action, and the scenes with the creatures very well rendered. If you've seen this film in 3D, I'd definitely be interested in hearing your thoughts on it).

Overall, I enjoyed the film very much. The story, the action, the special effects, and the sound were all elements very well put together to create an enjoyable movie.

After seeing this movie, I did go back and watch the original. It was nice to see a comparison. In the original, there have been some characters and elements that were changed in the remake. Though, overall the remake seemed to stay with the main plot of the original.

(Note: With the original, I did enjoy seeing the character of "Bobo" the mechanical owl. I was a little disappointed that Bobo did not play a large role in the remake.

Though, he did make an appearance though only a minor one. If you've seen the original, there's an inside joke with the dialogue when Bobo gets introduced in the remake. If you caught it, let me know what you think of it, it definitely made for a good laugh!)

If you're into an adventure type film and have somewhat of an interest in Greek mythology, I'd say this one is worth checking out.

Film Gurl's 15 Minute Rule: PASS

Happy movie watching!

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Friday, April 2, 2010

Pandorum (2009)

Hi Everyone! I'm sorry I haven't had the chance to post that much lately, I've been pretty sick. I've been trying to get better, been drinking lots of fluids and getting a lot of rest. Though, I have managed to find the effort to watch a couple of movies!

Since I was in the mood for sci-fi, I decided to check this film out. It's weird, I've been seeing a lot of films lately with Dennis Quaid (I guess he's been in a lot of movies!).

Going into this movie, I really didn't know what to expect. What got me was the tagline of the film, "Fear what happens next." So, I was really thinking it may be a horror/sci-fi type of film.

In the beginning, it really kind of started out and introduced the passengers of the ship. There is some mystery on how they got there and what they were exactly set out to do. (If you've seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about).

When the first couple of characters are introduced, there was a lot of dialogue and talking - the scene and background was being set. The film has a mix of some action and dialogue at first. It does start off a bit slow.

Though, it begins to pick up pace once the crew members of the ship start to do some exploring. It then becomes more of an adventure type movie with a sci-fi twist. (I don't want to ruin it for you, but let's just say if you liked this film it's very similar in nature).

When the action and adventure takes place, this is really when I got into the film. Though the whole movie took place on the ship, there was a lot of exploring done which really lead to a lot of twists and turns. (If you've seen the film, you'll know what I'm talking about).

It really becomes more of a "mind trip," and maze of survival for the members of the crew. This is the part of the film I really enjoyed. And yes, there is a twist at the end. It's hard to describe only to say again it's definitely a "mind trip" kind of movie.

Overall, I enjoyed the film. It did start out a bit slow, though the story and situation of the crew was a bit complicated. So, it's understandable how they had to take the time to set the tone and feel of the film.

After awhile, the film did pick up and I really did enjoy the adventure of the film. And, the ending was definitely worth it. (I won't spoil it for you but it was definitely "mind blowing").

If you're in the mood for a sci-fi type of film, I definitely recommend this one.

Happy movie watching!

p.s. If you have Facebook, I now have a Facebook page. Feel free to connect with me here and post up comments/questions on the wall. I will be updating the page with the latest posts and movie news. Looking forward to connecting with you!



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