August 24, 2010

#093: The White Ribbon (8/10)

Is it possible to truly love a film, but not be able to recommend it? I don't really think it is, but if it were, The White Ribbon might fall into that category for me.  This film looks beautiful on bluray.  The black and white was phenomenal.  Aside from the crystal clear picture, it is hard to believe this movie was made this century.  Everything about it seems genuinely old, yet it has a style that feels so fresh.  I've had this movie sitting on my shelf for 2 weeks and never got around to watching it.  I may have been intimidated by a 2 hour 25 minute black and white film that is completely subtitled.  I am very glad I finally got around to watching it.  It is a film that I will not soon forget.  However, I am unable to recommend it without greatly qualifying it.  For me, it was so nice to see a film like this. My arbitrary number system will bestow an 8 out of 10.

August 15, 2010

#092: The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo (4/10)

Lately I'd been hearing a lot of positive talk about the Swedish novel and film The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo.  Hollywood felt the story was compelling enough to make an American version starring Daniel Craig.  I was definitely intrigued to see what all the fuss was about.  I was very happy to see that the movie was available for streaming on Netflix.  Anytime you sit down to a foreign film that requires you to read subtitles you expect a slow pace and an artistic feel.  You definitely get the slow pace, but there isn't much art.  It feels more like a long episode of CSI than a film.  Right when I finished the movie I probably would have given it a 5/10.  The more I think about it the less I like it.  I'll drop my arbitrary rating to 4 out of 10.

August 14, 2010

#091: The Messenger (7/10)

I feel like it has been forever since I watched The Messenger, but I am just getting around to writing about it, almost 2 weeks later.  This film got almost no attention even though Woody was nominated for an oscar for his performance.  I probably would have skipped it if it hadn't shown up on Netflix's watch instantly selection.  I queued it up, but wasn't in any hurry to watch it. I expected it to be a boring movie with one worthwhile performance, but ultimately just another forgettable character drama.   However, I was surprised by how much this film and the performances resonated with me.  I give it a 7 out of 10.

August 1, 2010

#090: The Crazies (7/10)

I didn't totally know what I was getting into when I started The Crazies.  I'm sure I have said it before, but I am not a big fan of scary movies.  I wasn't expecting The Crazies to be extremely scary, just provide several moments of tension.  I was more scared than I thought I would be, and that was a good thing.  This is a pretty well made horror film, and provides quite a bit of enjoyment.  I don't think it is a perfect movie by any means, but it is worth watching.  I give it a 7 out of 10.