Movie Reviews By Robert Waldman
The Five-Year Engagement
(PG) * * * *
Cold Feet!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Popping the "big" question turns into a comedy of errors in The Five-Year Engagement, a superior, raucous though nicely massaged master comedy from Universal Pictures now unraveling at Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Odeon Theatres around B.C.
After a few misfires comedy kingpin Judd Apatow is back on track and better than ever with The Five-Year Engagement. Consider this 124 minute affair of the heart to be the perfect date movie. Too bad it wasn't released at the even better Feb. 14 day of celebration.
Bad timing can prove disastrous for any one. Take the case of timid Tom Solomon and British transplant Violet Barnes. Chemistry is in the air as nice guy Jason Segel goes through the motions in his attempts to woo Emily Blunt for her hand. Not all relationships are made in heaven and this one seems doomed from the start. Ah, but good intentions can go a long way to smoothing the waters only in this case things start spiraling downward in hurry.
Once you've met your match the next big question is popping the question. Sly director Nicholas Stoller milks the proposal for all it's worth as this happy go lucky shy as can be San Francisco based couple final agree to get married. That's only the start of a comedy of errors as big decisions need to be made. Among things weighing heavily on Tom and Violet's mind are religion, career, location and a whole range of other elements that prove just a touch problematic to say the least. Oh, and let's not forget work colleagues and family. With friends like these who needs enemies as the knives slowly come out and the comic backstabbing begin.
Side slapping laughter is the order of the day as you have to pull for these two to ultimately settled down. Lots of changes in the relationship develop over that five year stretch but true romantics will simply eat this all up. Like a fish out of water much comic usage is made with a shift in location from balmy San Francisco to wintry snow ridden Detroit. Needless to say over time both these lovers begin to question their true feelings.
Audiences won't question the humour and sincerity that runs rampant in this comical gem that makes romance ah so problematic. Great secondary characters including Rhys Ifans as a meddling professor and an over the top scene stealing offering from Chris Pratt as a co-worker take the zaniness of the whole situation to the nth degree.
Boy meets girl in a hilarious fashion just is the start for the ups and down roller coaster mating of two mature totally different people in this insane look at courtship that's a comic blast from start to finish.
Safe
* * *
Protector!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Protection plus is the order of the day in Safe, an action packed tension riddled whopper from Alliance Films now smoking out the competition at Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Odeon Theatres all over B.C.
Global fun is at the core of Safe, an intense showcase of corruption and derring feats set in the murky back alleys of New York. First though our tail begins back in China where a little girl holds the key to untold riches. Wanted by many adored by some Mei is definitely the centre of attention throughout this 94 minute thriller. Young Catherine Chan is cute as a button and has impressive memory skills, something that organized crime figures just yearn over.
Switch over to New York where you have competing gangsters interested in expanding their corrupt empires. On one side you have the Russian mob, at the other end you have the Chinese, also ruthless, and caught in the middle is this little girl. Oh, and let us not forget a washed up fighter named Luke Wright who somehow figures into this compelex tale of graft, corruption and real high stakes poker.
Action hero Jason Statham (The Transporter) continues to carve out an impressive list of he-man roles and is in top form as a lone wolf vigilante type character thrust into the plight of this smart but lost little girl. Lots of gun play, car chases and man to man battles ensure that Safe is a rock em sock em type movie that Statham's legion of fans will just adore.
Made by the creative hands of director/writer Boaz Yakin Safe delightfully captures the mob underworld of New York live. Overblown characters, corny dialogue and unbelievable stunts all come to a hand in this adrenalin charged movie that makes full good use of Mr. Statham's ample physical prowess and delightul, yes delightfu disarming charm.
Headhunters
(PG) * * * *
Risky Resume!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Danger on the job takes on a whole new meaning in Headhunters, another solid European import from Alliance Films now lighting up the screens at the International Village Cinemas.
Ideas that are good can come from any corner of the world, be they in industry, the arts - or whatever. Sure to be one of Norway's biggest hits, Headhunters is a delightful rousing mystery that comes close to the same polish given off by the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series. Those Swedish delights worked because they have universal appeal. Such is the case with Headhunters a film full of style, erotica, passion and dare I say delightfully delicious performances.
Centre stage in this 100 minute eye-opener is the plight of poor Roger Brown. Short on size, tall in stature comes Aksel Hennie who plays the mild-mannered husband to the rather beautiful Diana. Blonde bombshell Synnove Macody Lund is the exact opposite of her beau and this creates loads of problems for him. Not happy being a white collar worker whose task is to find replacements for company executives Roger moonlights a bit by doing odd jobs. Criminal acts aren't exactly his calling but you have to do what you have to do, especially when it comes to pleasing a gorgeous wife.
Unfortunately for Roger he winds up way over his head and finds himself immersed in a mystery that is baffling to be sure. Along the way we get to dwell deep into the murky world of munitions, secret operatives and high priced art.
Nothing is what it appears as in Headhunters and director Morten Tyldum pulls off a terrific little thriller mystery that will keep you guessing till the very end. All the actors here are terrific and it's great to see how Aksel Hennie hones his character as this meek husband who undergoes a rather stark transformation. And this is a good thing especially going up with the much better looking and ultra successful Clas Greve, well portrayed by Nikolas Coster-Waldau.
Tense, gripping and out and out in telligent, Headhunters is a superior drama that is riveting. Don't be scared away by the English subtitles; this Norwegian movie is easy follow and rocks!
The Hunter
(PG) * * *
Sitting Duck!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Danger in the great outdoors comes a courting in The Hunter, a superior slice of danger from EOne Entertainment now driving home it's point at Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Odeon Theatres across B.C.
Australian locations are used to great advantage in The Hunter. Lead man on the scene is born adventurer Martin David, a man with a unique still in hunting wild game. Top actor Willem Dafoe shows considerable poise and angst as the contract animal killer out to bag a truly elusive prey. Sent to the outback to track down a mystery tiger that's supposedly instinct David gets quite the culture shock treatment. Deep cover is what this man's "contractor" ordered and in this remote region strangers aren't exactly warmly embraced.
Fear of the unknown is not just a quality experienced in the great outdoors. Shelter for our born adventurer is provided by a family that doesn't exactly serve up Four Seasons type luxury. Headed by single mom Lucy Armstrong, her homestead leaves a lot to be desired. Frances O'Connor plays the out of touch mom who welcomes in this temporary boarder much to the delight of her two small children.
Friction is in the air as trouble seems to follow David around. One fair-weather family friend to the Armstrongs, fellow rancher Jack Mindy tries to provide helpful guide service but he too gets shunned by this loner. Reliable Sam Neill is suitably cocky as the hired help but it's really the awesome scenery that makes The Hunter an enjoyable experience.
If wildlife and the great outdoors turns you on then The Hunter sure does have it's fill of Australia's natural beauty. Awesome cinematography is everywhere and there is enough tension between competing human interests to keep you on edge through much of this well-paced finely acted Daniel Nettheim movie.
Damsels in Distress
(PG) * * *
Power Babes!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Three ambitious women do their best to change male attitudes and then some in Damsels in Distress, a searing satire that pokes fun at various uptight mores in this Sony Pictures Classics release now unfolding at the Fifth Avenue cinemas.
Back in the 50s there sure were some weird conventions. Three career minded women do their best to shake things up at a rather stuffy American college called Seven Oaks. Call Violet the ringleader or should I say cheerleader of these do-gooders. Greta Gerwig exhibits a know-it all bitchy attitude as the head hen who loves to hunt new recruits to her merry band with reckless abandon. Together these women are part of a suicide prevention team. Always at Violet's side are Heather and Rose ably portrayed by Carrie MacLemore and Megalyn Echikunwoke respectively. Besides trying to "save" folks the trio also are into "reforming" the college bad boys, men in general who are into partying and frolicking about.
Director Whit Stillman also co-wrote this 99 minute entry and it does provide good performances and some sly humour. Campus life is nicely depicted but there is a stupid broadway type show number thrown in that muddles the waters. Efforts at showing male/female mating patterns add some zest to the proceedings and there's also some nifty romantic triangles and a good performance from Analeigh Tipton in the role of Lily, a new convert to the cause who must battle with a number of emotions. Numerous characters are conflicted in this dark farce which has its good moments making it a nice farce and guilty pleasure.
Edwin Boyd Citizen Gangster
(PG) * * *
Six Shooter!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Family values go out the window, or do they, in Edwin Boyn Citizen Gangster, an impressive feat from EOne Entertainment now shooting for customers at the International Village Cinemas and elsewhere in British Columbia. Not to be missed, for once we have a Canadian movie with a Canadian subject that's actually entertaining. No, not just because this 105 minute production has the occasional gun play.
Known in the United States simply as Citizen Gangster, Edwin Boyd is a movie whose title really says it all. Set in the aftermath of World War II this film charts the troubled life of Edwin Boyd. Cast as the Canadian vet is Scott Speedman who runs with the role of the family man trying to make ends meet. Struggle confounds Edwin who does his best to please his attractive well-meaning wife Doreen and two young children. Actress Kelly Reilly.
Just like today desperate times lead to desperate actions and our Edwin fancies himself as an actor. Well, fiction turns to real life as the master of disguise uses his thespian talents to engage in criminal pursuits. Toronto police are at first confounded as this modern era Clyde fashions himself in the best tradition of those folksy American sharpshooters who kept authorities south of the boarder at bay. Here there is no female counterpart to Bonnie but the charisma and aw shucks charm of Boyd rather endears himself to bank employees as he goes about robbing financial institutions with reckless abandon.
No true gangster can do it all alone so a gang is assembled which leads to all sorts of added chaos for Boyd, the authorities and his family. Smart and fun to behold Edwin Boyd Citizen Gangster is an interesting piece of true Canadiana that rocks. Solid performances and a quality script by director Nathan Morlando make this movie a good time. Members of Boyd's gang all add their two cents to the proceedings with Kevin Durand particularly effective as smooth operator Lenny Jackson.
Fresh and a good period piece, this film also smartly include some great commentary from Canadian television icon Lorne Greene who's unmistakable timbre resonates long before he became Pa Cartwright on the Queen's favourite television show Bonanza.
Check out Edwin Boyd Citizen Gangster, arguably an honest look at Canada's own version of a Bonnie and Clyde crime wave that came to captivate a nation.
Sound of My Voice
(PG) * * * *
Simon Says!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Rare is it for a film to set you on your heels. Sit back but don't relax if you're brave enough to witness Sound of My Voice, a chilling tale of danger from Fox Searchlight Films. Not what you expect this chilling ordeal is now unravelling at International Village Cinemas in Vancouver.
Co-writer and director Zal Batmanglij sets his cameras on the paths of what appears your normal couple, Peter Aitken and Lorna Michaelson. Played by Christopher Denham and Nicole Visius are two lovebirds seem to be headed on a collision course of sorts. Besides being in love the pair wanders into an offbeat religious type organization that has all the earmarks of a cult.
Say what you will about religion or cults in Sound of My Voice we're led into a truly world that steeped in mystery and secrecy. From the first frames of this film we bear witness to the style of indoctrination this particular group practices. You'll be freaked out at the steps the leaders of this group go to in hopes of adding converts to their cause. Led by a woman named Maggie the atmosphere inside the meeting place where Peter and Lorna go through their tests is downright scary.
Special rituals and the ability to get others to follow orders is front and center throughout this scary 84 minute tale. Tension reigns down on all the chosen ones as Maggie and her co-conspirators push the new applicants to the limit in deadly ways. Uncomfortable feelings abound in Sound of My Voice, making it a true chiller of a film that works based on the intensity of the situation.
Forget about gore and shock effects here. Mind manipulation is the order of the day in this movie and the degrees of power used to coerce the innocent and peer pressure boils the surface in this unusual, different and provocative little movie.
Warriors of the Rainbow
Brute Force!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
History is on tap in rather barbaric form in the terrific Warrior of the Rainbow: Sediq Bale. Earth shattering on many levels this 20th Century Fox release can now be viewed at the International village cinemas in downtown Vancouver.
Action fans and those interested in history, particularly warfare should be enthrslled by this film. Originally clocking in at 4 1/2 hours this "stream-lined " version is "only" 2 1/2 hours long. Still it's impact is unsettling and insitedul.
This movie recounts the rough trestment meted out by the Japanese as they ran roughshod over the hopes and aspirations of the once peace-loving "savages" of Taiwan. Told through the eyes, actions and wisdom of Chief Mona Rudai Warriors of The Rainbow sizzles with action and symbolism. Director Te/Sheng Wei here pulls off a bloody tale of native resistance against a vastly superior invading army.
Superior battle encounters throughout the jungles jive well with the careful depiction of native culture to make Warrior of the Rainbow: Sediq Bale a lavish entertainment that combines history, Culture and struggle with memorable, mesmerizing performances.
Darling Companion
(G) * *
Dog's Breakfast!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Warmth and charm must have been a valiant attempt for the film makers of Darling Companion, a new release from Alliance Films. Despite a quality adult cast this film gets bogged down in a hurry despite a promising start. Check out this release at the 5th Avenue Cinemas if you don't mind slow moving affairs whose actors get caught in a bit of a squeeze.
Family problems lie at the heart of Darling Companion. Folks may think the title just a touch deceiving as the main focus of this 103 minute effort is a dog. Lost at first and found this canine provides the catalyst for a family on a collision course. Headed by Beth and Joseph this couple literally comes to near blows as their new-found pet drives a wedge between their marriage.
Veteran actors Diane Keaton (The Godfather) and Kevin Kline are cast in the central roles of a couple who find themselves at loggerhead when Fido goes missing. All this occurs at a snowy retreat and much is made of the search, aided by their extended family who are on hand for a wedding of sorts.
Director Lawrence Kasdan co-wrote this story with his wife and you don't really appreciate that many of the characters here. Though the film starts out in a promising way it gets bogged down when it's central theme, a lost animal, simply consumes too much screen time. Yes, you see the problems in the husband/wife relationship explode but the attempts to find the dog are way too contrived and become boring.
Bolstered by a good veteran cast including Richard Jenkins and Diane Wiest there simply is not much of an interesting story here which makes it a tedious process to sit through.
The Lady
(PG)
Wonder Woman!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Last year much was made of Meryl Streep's award winning performance as Maggie Thatcher in the stalwart The Iron Lady. Just as strong in the role of a leading actress can be experienced through Sony Pictures majestic The Lady now showing at the 5th Avenue cinemas.
History in the making is on tap in this multi-decade charting of the fabulous career of one Aung San Suu Ky. Set in lovely Burma this 2 hours and twelve minute journey shows how military conflict has historically plagued this nation and the lengths an evil military government has gone to stifle freedom.
James Bond alumnus Michelle Yeoh shows unbelievable charm and poise as the heir to a political legacy who returns to her homeland and becomes immersed in a political struggle that's absolutely heartbreaking. Action director gives up the heavy-handed theatrics to effectively zero in in the chilling atmosphere the poor populace have fallen prey to. Based on her real life stir The Lady is a powerful movie that will open your eyes to the brutality military madmen can instill on innocent populations.
A sense of desperation envelopes this film that also boasts evocative work from David Thewlis as Aung's ultimate stand by your spouse husband Michael Aris.
Uncomfortable often, The Lady is an outstanding testament to a truly remarkable, inspirational living human being.
Footnote
(G) * *
Cheated!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Academia gets put under the gun big time in Footnote, an offbeat and intriguing film from Sony Pictures Classics now stirring debate at the Fifth Avenue Cinemas.
Please don't confuse Footnote with Footloose, the hit dance film from Paramount Studios with Patrick Swayze. Change the dance floor to the halls of academia and you'll be in tune with Footnote. Like the title suggests written transcripts and publishing rites figure prominently in this odd little treat from Israel. Given the honour of being that Middle Eastern country's entry to best foreign film at the Oscars in 2011 Footnote delves deep into the race to receive one of Israel's top learned prizes: a coveted award given to scholars who have made an outstanding contribution to teaching.
Alas, not all is well in the university world as one Eliezer Shkolnik has for years dreamt of winning his nation's highest award. Professor Sckolnik, you see, is a Talmud scholar of note who had made a special finding in biblical studies. For years Eliezer has been passed over and now he is finally set to get his just rewards.
Members of the family are naturally elated, particularly son Uriel, a learned man in his own right. Just when all the stars seem to be in order a change occurs that puts a real wrench in both mens' lives. Footnote does an effective job of exploring that traditional father son relationship and does so in a unique environment: the biblical academic world.
Slow at times, this 103 minute movie has some good performances from the father/son team of Shlomo Bar-Aba and Lior Ashkenazi. You can sense the tension and competition in the air as this dynamic teaching duo do what they can to salvage their lives from a truly untenable situation. Competition is big in the university world and the intrigue, corruption and high stakes shenanigans of granting awards and honours is wonderfully depicted here.
Director/writer Joseph Cedar effectively turns the tables on two men who are not necessarily cut from the same cloth. A sudden ending though leaves many questions unanswered in this rather perplexing oddball of a movie that may yet find a following among the cultural elite.
The Cabin in the Woods
Danger Zone!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Weekend getaways become rather dangerous for a bunch of young adults in The Cabin in The Woods, the latest thriller from Alliance Films now carving out a niche at Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Odeon Theatres around B.C.
Summer time is ideal for a little down time. Vacations are big and going to a secluded lakeside cabin seems ideal for a couple of gals and their boyfriends. All this group wants is a time out and what better way than head out of the city. Unfortunately once in their remote region the group encounters all sorts of mayhem that will leave audiences shaking their heads.
Horror is a genre that needs meticulous handling. Director Drew Goddard does his best to serve up the chills. Stock characters figure prominently in this 105 minute shocker that combines science fiction and zombies as our would-be partyers wind up in the fights of their lives in a very unusual setting.
Hot to trot Jules Louden and boy pal Curt Vaughan just can't wait to get down to sexy business on their holiday. Sexy Anna Hutchison is all tease as Jules while Chris Hemsworth embodies that cut athletic look as the eager to please Curt. Also on this trip are virginal good girl Dana Polk, academically inclined Holden McCrea and pot head Marty Mikalski. Together Kristen Connolly, Jesse Williams and Fran Kranz do what they can to along with the gang and are eager to fit in. Too bad all sorts of ghastly goings on occur at this supposedly tranquil retreat.
Shot in British Columbia and made over a year ago with a delayed release, The Cabin in the Woods veers considerably off course when some sinister force appears to be responsible for the horrors that the kids must endure. Strong actors Richard Jenkins and Bradley Whitford get caught up in this monstrosity as big brother types involved in the dangers that lay in the woods. Even Sigourney Weaver appears from out of thin air as some sort of grand dame privy to a dastardly plot to scare these kids silly.
Into this mix are some ancient rituals, high tech voodoo and lots of zombies on the march. Too bad none of this story really makes any sense whatsoever. An incomprehensive blot that borders on the insane sadly reflects the wild premise of this unfathomable tale. Despite a few scares The Cabin In The Woods never really takes off as a horror feast and sadly ends up in a bloodbath that really is not that scary.
The Three Stooges
(PG) * *
Orphan Drop Outs!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Excess counts in some quarters. Director/writer tag team Bobby and Peter Farrelly are up to their old tricks in The Three Stooges, a wacky comical farce from 20th Century Fox now taking slapstick to new heights (or lows, depending on your mental outlook) at Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Theatres throughout B.C.
After numerous attempts by some pretty big Hollywood movers and shakers a fitting tribute to the classic pranksters popularized in the late 50s through the mid 60s finally makes it to the big screen. Parents be warned, the craziness first pioneered by these trendsetters is carefully recreated through 3-4 short, snappy episodes complete with the trademark theme music that ran with the original television shorts (and then full length feature films). Loved and admired by millions this new film benefits from terrific casting. And there definitely is chemistry in the air throughout this bumpy 92 minute affair.
Forget about plot here. What story there is, divided into three or four distinct and separate episodes, all derives from the fact that our lads were orphaned at an early age. A set of actors plays each main character at various stages in their life but the main thrust of the film revolves around the "older boys". But older has nothing to do with maturity as Moe, Larry and Curly never seem to have grown up. Cast in the pivotal roles of Moe, Larry and Curly are Chris Diamantopoulos, Sean Hayese and Will Sasso. Expect and receive huge amounts of hair pulling, eye gauging, face slappy and the usual nonsense so many of us grew up with.
Silly and absurd with lots of crazy sight gags, this film is still not as good as the original classics but does a good job with the material presented. Early Hollywood heavyweights including bad boy Mel Gibson and Canadian Jim Carrey were once attached to this project so fans should be greatful the film finally was made.
Mirror Mirror
(PG) * * *
Twisted!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Egos collide big time in Mirror Mirror a snappy fantasy full of humour and fun from Alliance Films now impacting audiences big time at Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Theatres around B.C.
Fantasy is alive and well and living in some far away kingdom. In a smart send-up to the Snow White tale trouble is definitely brewing in some far off kingdom. Once upon a time this land was ruled by a King, played by the life-like Sean Bean in strict royal garb. Unfortunately some wicked spell came his way and now his only daughter, Snow White, is banished for good inside a castle run by an evil queen.
It's a battle of wills as Lilly Collins is all sweet and innocent as the young princess while Julia Roberts is certainly up good as that bad, wicked Queen. Fun galore reigns down on the palace guard as the chief confidante to the ruler, Brighton, is played for laughs by the always hilarious Nathan Lane.
Oh, and let us not forget the roguish prince who just happens into this muddle comic mess. Enter Prince Alcott, a definite lady's man as presented by Armie Hammer. Director Tarsem Singh does justice to the classic fairy tale genre as invented by ace German writers Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm. In Mirror Mirror you have all the elements of a wondrous adventure complete with diminutive dwarves, a damsel in distress, a dashing prince and an oh so evil ruler. Told in complete tongue in cheek style, you just know this entire cast was having a good time filming this fantasy. Full of glorious costumes and some very funny sly moments Mirror Mirror will prove popular among families and is child safe yarn sure to hold the little ones' attention.
The Hunger Games
New World Order!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Call it the movie event of the year. Superb on all counts is The Hunger Games, a dynamic epic in the making from Alliance Films now taking off at Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Odeon Theatres around B.C.
Movie franchises can be hit or miss affairs. By far the granddaddy of them all are the 007 epics. Incidentally, those films also had their origins in books written by ace writer Ian Fleming. After James Bond came Superman, then Batman, Beverly Hills Cop, Star Wars, Star Trek, Dirty Harry, Indiana Jones, Die Hard, Mission Impossible, Austin Powers, X Men and Twilight. Oh, and prior to this we had all the Tarzan epics as well as Charlie Chan and Sherlock Holmes. To this list must now be added The Hunger Games. Expect big things to come from this coming of age story.
Family is at the heart of The Hunger Games. In a nutshell this future society has a unique contest where "children" from 12 districts are forced to enter a contest that's a fight to the finish. Televised to a global audience this showdown is great fun to behold as we watch the kids go through the motions, always egged on by the ace emcee played to the hilt by funnyman Stanley Tucci.
All eyes, however, focus on the female member of the team from District 12, played with chilling cunning by Jennifer Lawrence. Fresh off her hot hit as the tough gal from The Winter Bone Ms. Lawrence captivates the screen as the bow and arrow marksman who must use all her wits, cunning and charm to stave off elimination in this true to life Survivor update that's smart, stylish and full of imagination.
The Hunger Games is a monumental epic that though slightly over 2 ½ hours always holds your attention. Here the futuristic setting is both realistic and breathtaking. Costumes that dazzle, rivalry that's downright nasty and a heroine who puts her family first all make The Hunger Games must see fun that is enjoyable from start to finish. This brave new world is wicked, delightful and full of pomp and circumstance sure to arouse your inner emotions.
Chimpanzee
(G) * *
Soul Survivor!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Trust Disney to pull off another winner for the kid in all of us. Upstart film division Disney Nature continues its tradition with Chimpanzee, a fully functional and lively film that is set in dark Africa. Check it out at Cineplex Theatres around B.C.
Awesome photography is the highlight in this 90 minute tale that follows the worldly plight of a monkey called Oscar. Much of this little guy's life revolves around his family and his extended clan. Photographers get up close and personal as we "track" this friendly creature and how he "bonds" with his tribe. Unfortunately not all is well on the range as Oscar's collective family are in a power struggle with some rival monkeys.
Led by the mercurial Scar it's a fight to the finish as Oscar's friends are laid siege to the evil forces of Scar and his legion of followers. Power is everything in the jungle and Chimpanzee successfully shows how one little chimp manages to survive against all odds. Aided by a romanticized score and some ultra corny dialogue Chimpanzee is a tale the little ones should enjoy. There's clever shots in the jungle and the bond of family is well in evidence in this animal kingdom.
21 Jump Street
(PG) * * *
Jerky Fun!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Throwbacks to the 80s can be a blast or a downer. Smart Columbia Pictures successfully pulls off a fitting tribute to a television icon with 21 Jump Street, a sizzling comedy now showing off at Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Odeon Theatres across B.C.
Once upon a time British Columbia was a hot bed for television production. Isn't it funny how we've come a long way since those heady days of the late 1980s. Updated and smart throughout is the big screen version of 21 Jump Street. While the late television classic sure did launch the career of a then unknown Johnny Depp this new version features two of the hottest young stars on the planet.
Odd balls in tandem sure are teenagers Schmidt and Jenko. Nerd poster boy Jonah Hill comes off well as a loveable teddy bear playing the bullied nervous Nelly Schmidt while handsome mug Channing Tatum gives good vibes as the athletically inclined bad with numbers Jenko. Early on directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller show the humiliation both boys suffered in high school. Flash forward a few short years and believe it or not somehow these two jerks wind up becoming policemen.
Naturally, as cops these fellows are complete morons. When an opportunity arises for the pair to join a new team on a special mission they seize it. 21 Jump Street is the shadowy name of this new task force and it's headed by a straight talking no nonsense Captain Dickson, iced nicely by none other than Ice Cube at his comic, fast talking best. Like all good undercover police the two supposedly grown up men take on their new challenge with gusto as they return to their old haunting grounds to infiltrate some bad apples in high school.
Back to school we go and the jokes simply get more insane as Jenko and Schmidt must somehow "blend in" with their new crowd to crack some major crime czar. Rules and good taste go out the window as for 109 minutes all the rites of high school will come back to haunt you, as well as the accident prone Jenko and Schmidt who are now so deep under cover you'll die laughing. Heaven help the bad guys who get into the sights of these twisted up tight and screwed up rookie boys in blue.
100% different than the classic Johnny Depp series, this new updated and improved 21 Jump Street is a total blast and takes the cop buddy movie genre to new heights or new lows depending on your perspective. It's a gas if you like far out humour, which this film has got in spades. Stock high school characters are really captured dead on and Ice Cube actually steals this show as the captain in charge of this runt squad whose attitude will blow you away!
The Vow
(G) * * *
Love Hurts!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Just in time for Valentine's Day comes the release of The Vow, the latest three hanky romantic tearjerker from Columbia Pictures now creating moist eyes at the Esplanade 6,Empire Studio 12, Colossus and Cineplex Odeon Theatres around B.C.
Love comes and goes and continues to confound generations. Told in a flashback style of sorts, The Vow reveals the hardships of regaining passion. More importantly, this film tactfully explores young love and the pain and sorrow of serious health issues that sooner or later enter everyone's life. For two young adults, however, a freak accident turns their lives into an obvious tailspin with truly unpredictable results.
Lost in love and in a complete tizzy is causal dude Leo. Teen heartthrob Channing Tatum continues to mug his way through romantic tete a tetes as this "average" guy who becomes smitten by Paige. Sultry Canadian Rachel McAdams delves into the complex role of Paige, a poor little rich girl coddled by her upscale parents, Rita and Bill Thornton. Casting counts a lot and both Sam Neill and Jessica Lange are outstanding as the social climbing elders who aren't exactly enamoured with Paige's decisions in life - not the least of which is hooking up with blue collar working stiff Leo.
Whatever love this pair had for one another becomes unraveled when Paige becomes ill and loses her memory. Imagine the angst Leo goes through when he discovers that Paige no longer knows he's her husband. All the rest of The Vow smartly chronicles Leo's plight to work his way back into Paige's life. Along the way loads of secrets emerge which has audiences wondering just what will happen between this dynamic duo.
As a team and couple Tatum and McAdams are perfect. Tatum offers that solemn I've lost it all persona and largely mugs his way pining through most of this 104 minute movie. Contrast his gloomy outlook on life with a radiating McAdams who has never looked better. Put her face on screen and it literally glows with warmth. Lots of issues surface in The Vow and director Michael Sucsy delivers the goods in this sophisticated soap opera that also features a nice turn from Scott Speedman as a man from Paige's past.
Obviously targeted towards women, The Vow nonetheless is a well-made romantic triumph whose theme of live life to the fullest and second chance comebacks works flawlessly. Men will also like this movie if they have warm hearts
Jeff, Who Lives at Home
(PG) * * * *
Family Growth!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
One wacky family undergoes quite the upheaval in Jeff, Who Lives at Home, a wonderful comedy/drama piece from Paramount Vantage now striking just the right chord at the Fifth Avenue Cinemas and International Village Cinemas
Few families are intact and without worries. Such is the case for a middle aged mom and her two grown sons. Problems galore confront each member of this clan headed by the working Sharon, nicely portrayed by veteran heavyweight Susan Sarandon. Sharon's office problems pale in comparison to the plight of her two sons, particularly her 30 year old boy named Jeff who, as the title suggests, still lives at home. Perhaps it's the cost of living that makes grown children return to the nest only in the case of Jeff he has a few emotional issues that are beautifully revealed by funnyman Jason Segel in a truly restrained performance.
Much bigger laughs in this bittersweet comedy come courtesy of Jeff's uppity brother Pat, a man on the move. Rising star Ed Helms from The Hangover lets loose as a husband up to his neck in problems with his wife Linda, well acted by Judy Greer.
Huge issues confront this family and directors/writers Jay and Mark Duplass deliver to us wonderful original characters and thrust them into truly unbelievable situations. Brotherly love is at the core of this heartfelt story that explores the ups and downs in relationships. And marriage gets put under the ringer in this wonderful tale of fear and hope that will have you in the palm of this family's loving hands.
Finding the right person and managing to hang on is a tough road to hoe for anyone. In Jeff, Who Lives at Home we are truly treated to an engaging expose of the joys and dilemmas families face in their struggle to stay together. Warm comedy emanates throughout this compassionate story that's comical at times while also quite reflective. A big hit at the Sundance Film Festival Jeff, Who Lives at Home is an endearing small tale of diverse people trying to connect with different results. Sudden shocks to the system enliven this story further with many twists and turns giving us also a voyeuristic peak into the weird peccadilloes of some truly interesting characters sure to stay on your mind for a long time afterwards.
The Flowers of War
(PG) * * *
Survive!
By ROBERT WALDMAN
Brute force and the will to survive burst forth in The Flowers of War, a jarring tale of pain and hope from EOne Entertainment now enlightening patrons at the Empire Granville Seven Cinemas.
History is painful and cinema can point out past events that many of us may not be aware of. War is hell and many atrocities go unchecked. In The Flowers of War we bear witness to the horrific assaults perpetrated by the Japanese on an unsuspecting populace in China.
Director Yimou Zhang here mounts an impressive film which is just a touch long at 146 minutes. Heroic Christian Bale leaves his Caped Crusader mask behind to star as John Miller, a drunken mortician who literally stumbles his way into war torn Nanging, China in 1937 at the height of the Japanese penetration. Under heavy fire Miller finds refuge, of sorts at a religious church surrounded by heavy artillery. Inside the convent are children, the bulk being girls who are terrified of the murderous ways of the invading Japanese Army.
Unhappy with his situation Miller further encounters more problems as a group of Chinese courtesans also seek refuge in this compound. Outside the gloom of war descends on the entire city as people panic amidst the gunfire and hail of bullets. Inside you have the tragic plight of young girls and women who don't like each other and are scared but hate the invading Japanese even more.
The Flowers of War features standout acting and a unique story of just how these girls and women wrestle with their plight and try to flee the danger that is omnipresent. Bale is quite good as a decent chap who must decide how to save his own life. All the women in this film, particularly the prostitutes, are fetching and memorable And the Japanese soldiers are equally driven to terrorize their captives making The Flowers of War an uncomfortable film to take in.
Still, this film is based on a true story which will leave many in shock as do the ugliness of war and the victimization of innocent girls and women who's only crime was being born with the XX chromosome. After seeing The Flowers of War you'll want to take a shower over the dirtiness of the whole episode, a sorry time in world history not to be forgotten. It's also a film of hope that at it's heart has a humane streak and focuses on the coming together of a people to defeat (or outsmart) a sinister, ruthless enemy. Numerous debut performances are worth noting, especially Ni Ni who is poignant as a sophisticated call girl whose hooks will reel many people in.
Sure to create waves also are the bad guys, particularly the lead commander of the Japanese troops, the ivy league educated Colonel Hasegawa and his brutal bloodthirsty henchman Lieutenant Kato. Both Atsuro Watabe and Shigeo Yobatashi are pitch perfect as the evil-doers, respectively, who bring new meaning to cultured debauchery while newcomer Huang Tianuyan shows much poise and restraint as George, the self-sacrificing lone male among this harem of despair.
Poignant throughout, The Flowers of War effectively reveals a human tragedy that will stir viewers emotionally that showcases the mindlessness of war and the heroic lengths some will go to in order to survive.
