Death of a Salesman

(1985)

Alexis Says:



3.5 STARS

This is perhaps my favorite play and I admit I was eager to see this particular production. But it didn't let me down. Hoffman pulls off the sadness, the failure, the unwillingness to accept defeat that is Willy Loman and Malkovich tries again and again to steal the show as Loman's eldest son, Biff. The scenes are gripping and even more so when you realize how simple the set and camera work are. These actors are crafting beautiful scenes with their talent alone (and maybe the help of a wonderfully written piece of literature). Though I would rather go and watch a play in a theater than view one on my television I was overall impressed by this take on such a classic tragedy. I would recommend it alone for the scene in which Biff pleads with his father to accept him for whom he really is, maybe the best thing I have ever seen Malkovich in, maybe not, but worth a view nonetheless.

Todd Says:

4 STARS

I'm not a huge fan of plays turned into films, but this is done well. It still feels like a play. The scenes are framed in obvious stage sets and the tone is so somber. Hoffman and Malcovich are supurb. But I guess the real credit goes to Miller, whose work was translated honestly. Death of a Salesman is definately something everyone should see at least once. Tragic.


I'm realising that I love tragedy.

Reign Over Me

(2007)

Todd Says:

4 STARS

Happy Gilmore as a traumatized survivor in a serious drama acting opposite Don ‘the incredible’ Cheadle? Yes, it does work. It works beautifully. Who knew Adam Sandler had it in him. (I know, I know, Spanglish wasn’t terrible, but…)
This movie works on every level for me. It’s depressing yet hopeful, it’s humorous yet serious, it’s tragic and it’s real. It’s a roller coaster that you need to ride, as Sandler’s character deals with issues darker than anyone should have to and Cheadle’s character deals with his own demons. See it, see it now. But let me warn you, if you are the crying type bring a hanky.

Alexis says:

4.5 STARS

I like Adam Sandler, I am not a fan of every Happy Madison film but I can appreciate some of them. But Sandler’s performance in Reign is so incredibly unlike him, so brilliant, so believable that I have to remind myself who I am watching. Sandler’s grief stricken widow performance is solid and convincing, tissue worthy and thought provoking. You root for Sandler’s character and applaud his strength in the aftermath of such a terrible accident. This is by far Sandler’s best performance in a film to date.

The movie on a whole is first-rate. It is one of those films that are beautiful, yet sad; heartbreaking, yet optimistic. Don Cheadle, whose performance is equally as touching, and Sandler work together magnificently and the outcome is a must see film.

Go ahead already, go see it.

Michael Clayton

(2007)

Alexis says:

5 STARS

Let me begin by saying that I love George Clooney. He could be selling instant tanner and I would buy it, he does good work, he’s an incredible actor and he isn’t too bad on the eyes either if you ask me. I read once that Clooney chooses the movies he’ll make by doing one for himself and one for the masses. Michael Clayton was a Section Eight production, one for himself in other words but it turns out that it also works for the masses. I felt that George Clooney, Tilda Swinton and Tom Wilkinson all give five star performances in this enthralling film. The story, the characters, and scene structure are all masterfully woven together to land this a five star rating, drop whatever you are doing and go see this film.


Todd Says:

4 ½ STARS

Let me begin by saying that my wife’s feelings for George Clooney make me nervous. On the bright side, I need not worry about going gray I suppose.
Michael Clayton was riveting. I love it when a movie simply refuses to let you go even for a second, and that’s what this one does. It is a thinker though, and may not be for everyone (there was only one explosion during the entire film). But if you’re the type of movie fan who doesn’t have to be bombarded with relentless action sequences, this is a must see: Plot, Character Development, Mood, it’s got ‘em all. I only withheld the coveted 5 STAR rating because I’m a film snob and I’m always holding out for the PERFECT film. Go see this now!

Once

(2006)

Todd says:

3 STARS

Once was a good movie, but I don’t feel that it lived up to the hype. The music was excellent, and the story was good but it felt more like a ramshackle documentary about street performers in Dublin. I loved the ending, but I just liked the rest of the movie. Not bad, but not great.

Alexis says:

3 STARS

I also thought that the music was excellent. I like that it didn’t fit some sappy Hollywood formula and that the main characters didn’t end up together though the synopsis on the back of the box suggested otherwise. I felt that the movie portrayed believable characters, though it was kind of evident that the actors were more musicians than actors. Overall, the story was interesting and the music captivating and had it not been for the mass critical acclaim it received I might be able to award it more stars.


If you are looking for a good music documentary we recommend you check out Tell Me Do You Miss Me, be careful though, it may break your heart.

-Ward & June

Welcome!

Last night Todd and I were discussing just how much we love movies. Short ones, long ones, sad ones, funny ones, etc. etc.

We decided that we would start critiquing the movies we watch. We will only critique movies we have seen recently (so it may be slow to start). We won't be reviewing any childhood favorites from memory, though we may go back and watch some older movies again and write a review.

If you too enjoy the cinema, hang out, read some reviews, leave some reviews.

For your entertainment.

-Alexis