Movie Review: The Tree of Life

First, thanks to Mike for the chance to write for this awesome blog. Hopefully this is the first of many posts that I will be contributing.

Director Terrence Malick's "The Tree of Life" is not for the casual moviegoer. In fact, a group of giggly young women in the row in front of me walked out about a third of the way through the movie (to my relief, as they were very annoying). If you see this movie, which I recommend you do, be prepared for something you've probably never seen before. Its been advertised as a kind of dramatic version of "The Wonder Years," but its really more along the lines of Kubrick's "2001: A Space Odyssey" and Aronofsky's "The Fountain." Both of which are superior films. Despite its flaws, which I will describe in detail, "The Tree of Life" should be praised overall for its technical achievement and the risk that Malick took in spending the last 10 years making this unique film. In an age of "Transformers" sequels and "Mr. Popper's Penguins," it is incredibly refreshing to see a risky film like this get made at all, let alone have a fairly wide-release.

Change Your Life, Change The World

Most people exaggerate when they state, 'That movie changed my life.' I have been one to say it on occasion, but what I mean is usually, 'That movie changed the way I view film' or 'That film changed the way I think about the [genre].' Rarely do I actually mean, 'As a result of viewing this film, my life will be forever changed.' I dare to say that 'I Am', a film directed by Tom Shadyac, is that film. There are so many things I can say about that film, but it would not serve it justice.

This film is eye-opening ad soul-lifting. If it does not change or challenge the way you live, I will be shocked. It is a must see.

I would dare to say that this should be mandatory viewing at any educational institution. Words really can't express how I feel and I would be ruining the experience for anyone by mentioning details.

I hope this film puts things into perspective for you, as it has done for me.

Bravo.

Movie Review: Bridesmaids

After the semi-disappoint that was The Hangover: Part 2, I went to catch Bridesmaids, and as the credits rolled, I realized it should've never been my second choice this last weekend.

Movie Review - The Hangover: Part 2

***Warning - Contains minor spoilers***

Last night, I ventured to a local theater to catch The Hangover: Part 2, a film which tried to "one-up" it's predecessor with mixed results. To start, here's a synopsis:

The guys, Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stu (Ed Helms), Alan (Zach Galifianakis), and Doug (Justin Bartha), are in Las VegasThailand for Doug's Stu's wedding. Stu didn't want a crazy bachelor party thanks to the shenanigan's in Vegas. Instead, the guys, plus Stu's brother-in-law to-be, Teddy, all have a single beer on the beach to celebrate the occasion. Cut to the next scene and Phil, Stu, and Alan are waking up in a luxurious suite at Caesar's Palace disgusting, run-down, drug den of a hotel room in Bangkok. When Alan and Phil stumble upon Stu, they realize he is missing a tooth has a brand new Mike Tyson face tattoo. Upon further investigation of where they woke up, the guys find they are now in custody of a baby drug-taking monkey. Shortly after, the film's plot driving device occurs: the crew realizes that Doug Teddy is missing. The typical debauchery ensues as the guys go out into the streets of Bangkok to gather the puzzle pieces of just what the hell happened the night before, in hopes that their efforts will lead them to Teddy. Along the way, they kidnap Mike Tyson's tiger a Buddhist monk, and it's discovered that Alan drugged everyone to make sure the bachelor party was unforgettable get some alone time with the "Wolfpack" without Teddy involved. In the end, Teddy is found and everyone gets back to the wedding in time for the ceremony to go on as planned.

So do I recommend it? If you liked The Hangover and don't mind the fact that this "sequel" is essentially a remake, then go for it. Just like the first incarnation, the sequel's comedy comes from shock value. There are some ridiculous moments that push the boundaries of the "R" rating. On the other hand, many jokes fell flat and felt forced, with the main culprit being Zach Galifianakis. Overall, with ticket prices nowadays, I would suggest waiting to catch this one on Netflix. Better yet, just watch The Hangover again. Same plot, but far superior in comedic value.

And whenever you watch it, just like with the first one, make sure you watch the credits. Pure gold.

Chairlifts, Snow and Wolves, Oh My!

On our recent ski trip to Mount Tremblant, Mike brought up this film while we were at the bar. He gave me the general premise and told me that it was definitely worth my while to look into. At the time, I was intrigued but the next day while riding the chairlift, my fear of heights took hold and any time the chairlift stopped I was convinced we were stuck there for the rest of eternity. I was about ready to take off my glove and give Mike an icy cold slap in the face but figured I should keep all of my layers on in case we were actually stuck. Needless to say, I survived and now a month later I finally sat down to watch it.

Going into it, my mind was riddled with all of the plot holes that this film was going to have and how the next hour and a half would demonstrate exactly what is wrong with thrillers these days. Despite my reservations, I carried on and discovered that the creative minds behind this project actually had a brain.

The story follows three college students who travel to a small mountain in New England to get away from the stress and pressure of college life. In an attempt to save money (as a college student I can certainly identify with this sentiment) the trio bribes one of the chairlift operators in order to avoid having to buy overpriced lift tickets. As the day of riding comes to a close, the friends beg for one last run down the mountain but get more than they bargained for when they find themselves trapped.

What follows is a poignant analysis of how the human mind deals with extraordinary circumstances. Initially, there are feelings of denial as they try to remain calm and stay positive about the situation. They quickly turn to accusations, as reality sets in and are finally engulfed with the unerring need to survive at all costs. These emotions are portrayed well by the young actors and as the story evolves you find yourself highly involved in the characters' survival.

While it will not "do for skiing what Jaws did for swimming", it is a clever and tense thriller that accurately explores the humanity of survival. It's currently available on Netflix instant so if you have some time, check it out.

Overall Grade: B