Battle for Tierra: "A Heartfelt, Fresh Perspective to the Alien Invasion Story that Showcases the Best Characteristics of Humanity"

Rating:

***½

By: Da’Mon Guy

     Battle for Terra is an entertaining, touching, sci-fi animated feature that uses fresh perspective on the usual alien invasion story. This is an thought provoking, insightful film that utilizes a animated sci fi story to convey a multitude of themes. The film features an all star casts that utilizes the voice talents of Evan Rachel Wood (The Wrestler), Luke Wilson (Death at a Funeral), Dennis Quaid (Vantage Point), James Gardner (The Notebook), Amanda Peet (2012), Danny Glover (Death at a Funeral), Rosanna Arquette (American Pie: The Book of Love), Brian Cox (Red), David Cross (Alvin and the Chipmunks: the Squeakquel), Chris Evans (The Losers), Mark Hamill (Star Wars), Ron Pearlman (Hell Boy 1 &2), Justin Long (Youth In Revolt), and Danny Trejo (Machete).

     Battle for Terra is an animated sci fi adventure that uses a unique perspective on the typical alien invasion story. This particular tale does a 180 degree turn on the take and makes the humans the invaders of another planet, Terra. This viewpoint added a fresh touch to the usual redundant alien invasion story.

     This entertaining animated feature premiered in 2007 and is loaded with voice talents by a number of Hollywood stars as well as a good story. Battle for Terra is stockpiled with a multitude of themes that define the nature of man. The movie aptly emphasizes the violent nature of mankind as this animated feature emphasizes how man’s continually destructive nature has now brought the human spices to the point of extinction. Our destructive ways have completely destroyed the earth, Mars, and Venus. As a result, humans have been forced to live in an “Ark” in are looking for another suitable home. The film takes place generations after that catastrophic event as the Ark is now breaking down.

     The film is visually appealing as the colors and richness of the animation are clearly a part of the showcase. The film’s visuals accentuate the story as it is used to help immerse the audience into the culture and environment of this would be home to the potential conquerors, the humans. It also gives a glimpse at the Terrans, a spiritual alien race that float. Most of the characters are not up to the great standard that is now present in most animated features as the humans appear a little odd. This however adds to the sentiment that they are the strangers as compared to the Terrans, who are much more detailed and defined. The colors of Terra and the backgrounds of the planet’s surroundings are magnificently brought to life.

     The film speaks volumes about the nature of mankind. It uses the destruction of Earth to illustrate how destructive we can be. In the same breath however, it uses the Terrans to show what could have been the exact opposite of what mankind has become as the Terrans almost destroyed their planet in there indulgence with violence and conquest. The Terrans are a species that were much like man at one point, vicious and war torn but have given that up in order to offset a dismal fate.

     The film focuses on the relationship between a rebellious Terrean, Mala (Wood) and a stranded pilot, Jim Stanton (Wilson) who forge a friendship out of an unlikely chance meeting between the two. This is very reminiscent of Enemy Mine but not to that degree.

     I enjoyed Battle for Terra. This film turned out to be so much more than I expected. The trailers make it appear to be some animated Star Wars like movie but the movie is so much more than that. The film is a great showcase for thematic expression. This animated feature cleverly disguises a number of themes. The overriding is the one of man’s indulgence with violence and conquest. However, in addition to those, the film masks messages about discrimination, love, sacrifice, friendship, and religion just to name a few. It is a astutely written, well thought story that does more than just entertain. It spurs one to think, feel, and react to this touching tale of friendship and sacrifice. It isn’t the greatest animated film but it is one of the deepest. A good watch with or without the kids.

Dinner for Schmucks: "A Moderatley Entertaining Comedic Happenstance that Teeters the Line of Being Hilarous and Being Utterly Deplorable"

Rating:

***

By: Da’Mon Guy

     Dinner for Schmucks is a moderately humorous happenstance that blurs the line of being an enjoyable, amusing comedy and an humorless mind-numbing absurdity. This muddled experience is a humorous attempt to ridicule the more oddly eccentric characters within our society. It stars Paul Rudd (I Love You, Man), Steve Carell (Date Night), Stephannie Syzostak (The Devil Wears Prada), Zack Galfinikas (Due Date), and Jermaine Clement (Despicable Me). It also features Bruce Greenwood (Star Trek 2009), Lucy Punch (Hot Fuzz) in lesser supporting roles.

     After an executive is fired, an aspiring financial advisor seeks to assume his position. He quickly convinces his boss to allow him the opportunity to gain the position he covets but with conditions. He must attend a monthly dinner with the rest of the corporate yuppies, however there’s a catch, the dinner is a chance for the yuppies to mock at the less fortunate, more eccentric, characters that attend. They call them idiots.

     Dinner for Schmucks is a mediocre comedy that is a collaboration of humor and senselessness. The film maintains a brief flirtation with being hilarious but it also teeters on being repugnantly simple-minded. It possesses no middle ground in between the two. This comedy within this film will either have you laughing or extremely irritated. This confusing debacle has some abrupt flashes of comedic genius. However, for every good comedic instance within it, it also contains too many dead spots to allow the audience to enjoy the very amusing moments. This movie has some of the more “cricket spurring” comedic occurrences that you will ever witness within a film. The flashes of humor are enjoyable but many of them are used to the extreme. Quickly draining the humor of the moment where it kills the pleasantry of the joke. Some of the more physical, slapstick moments are the best in the film. The scene where Darla comes to visit Tim after Barry mistakenly invites her over via email, the initial brunch that where Tim meets Mueller and Barry brings Darla (Punch) Others such as Barry’s obsession with mice and Kieran (Clement) running around in a goat costume are severely despicable.

     Deeply embedded within this complicated farce is a warm message about truth, love, and friendship. The movie is a great showcase of true friendship and remaining true to oneself. Tim unwittingly learns this though his coincidental meeting that turns into an unsuspecting friendship with Barry. Though his friendship with Barry, Tim begins to recognize aspects about himself as well as other shortcomings within his life. Through the course of the comical change of events, Tim realizes that Barry is a good person and true friend.

     Paul Rudd and Steve Carell make a good comedic tandem. The two play of one another well within this muddled subterfuge of misfortune. Rudd plays Tim, an aspiring executive who is stuck in an existence of unfulfilled opportunities. Rudd as the straight man is an accustomed role that he depicts very well. Rudd’s straightforward portrayal opens the door for a zany over the top performance by Steve Carell. Carell gives a great performance as the dim witted, completely misunderstood but lovable, Barry. Barry’s wonderfully misguided comical bouts with stupidity drive the story and the bond that is formed between he and Tim. The misguided attempts by Barry garner much of the laughs within this duality.

     This dim witted story is a great showcase for some of the most ridiculous characters that you will ever see in a movie. Most of them are just vehicles to advance the story. In addition to Carell’s wonderfully idiotic interpretation of Barry, the movie is filled with a number odd mildy humorous characters. These characters led by Carell’s Barry are just like the rest of the film. Some are extremely funny but others are widely irritating. These characters enhance but also detract from the comic decadance of the film. Darla, Tim’s obsessive stalker, Kieran (Clement), the strange and obsessively horny artist, and Therman (Galfinikas), the mind controlling tax employee all do their part to bring this humorous debauchery to life.

     The highlight of this humorous spoof is the final dinner where all of the “so called” idiots are revealed. The comedy surrounding the dinner follows the same mandate as the rest of this mismanaged farce, it’s hit or miss. Some of it is sheer funny but as with the rest of the film’s comedy, it quickly turns it into something deplorable, almost tortuous, completing ruining the humor that it had just inspired only minutes before. The “idiots” come out in all shapes and forms. Some of the them are mildly amusing such as the Blind Swordsman and Barry. While others such as the Pet Psychic and Thurman are ready made targets for gun practice. Barry and Thurman’s finale showdown was one of the most senseless, irritating, utterly deplorable attempts to entertain you. The only thing funny about was the sheer idiotic nature of it.

     I’ve never seen a movie like Dinner for Schmucks. The film is as funny as it is irritating. I am completely torn as to whether or not to recommend this film to anyone. Some of it is funny as ever but much of it needs to be burned. If you are a Steve Carell fan then you should check this out but if you’re just a casual fan of film then watch this with caution and only if you don’t have anything else that you would like to see first.

Devil: "A Unexpectedly Entertaining Story of Suspense with a Great Twist"



Rating:

***

By: Da’Mon Guy

     Devil is an suspenseful, compelling tale that entertainingly intertwines horror with religion. The film intricately focuses religion, sin, and forgiveness. The film is the latest, moderately enjoyable thriller from M. Night Shyamalan. The movie is the first decent film in a long series of continually disappointing catastrophes by Shyamalan. The movie features Chris Messina (Julia &Julia), Logan Marshall Green (Brooklyn‘s Finest), Jenny O’Hara (Matchstick Men), Bojana Novakovic (Edge of Darkness), Bokeem Woodbine (Black Dynamite), Jeffery Arned (500 Days of Summer), Jacob Vargas (The Hills Have Eyes 2), and Matt Craven (Public Enemies).

     Four people become trapped in an elevator. As they are killed one by one. The details about each of the participants history slowly begin to surface revealing the truth about them all.

     Devil is multifaceted thriller that uses a religious theme to induce a level of thought provoking fear into its audience. The film begins with allegory from the outset. The film’s cinematography is used as a precursor, showing the buildings and all of the scenes are reversed with the buildings upside down with the sky as the bottom of the screen. This incites two critical points of foreshadowing. It shows the devil’s level of control as the dominant deity within the film as well it is a foreboding of things to come. Devil also utilizes a voice over during the film to facilitate the story as our narrator gives us some insight into the evil series of events that are soon to unfold before the audience.

     The film has a multitude of religious aspects intertwined into its maddening horror. Devil addresses many profound religious aspects such as forgiveness, attrition, sin, and even sacrifice. M. Night Shyamalan superbly embeds these aspects into a clever suspense tale that aptly intermingles aspects of each of the four characters sub stories to help facilitate and accentuate the main story of the plot.

     The film stylishly builds a good level of suspense and anticipation for the terror, however, it loses a great deal of the terror as the constant blackouts which only feature audio. The initial occurrence was able to build the anticipation but the repetition of it became sickening. It successfully raised the level of suspense and tension only to lose it because of the redundancy of the scenes.

     The casts is headlined by mostly unknowns. They do an admirable job in bringing this religious based horror to life. Chris Mussina carries most of the emotional baggage as he is the haunted by the deaths of his family. He conveys his emotion genuinely and believable. Logan Marshall Green also adds a commendable performance as our second protagonist. Green’s performance carries the film as his character’s background is the central focus of film. The other casts members all add to the story but nothing spectacular.

     Finally, a M. Night Shyamalan movie worth going to see. Devil is actually an enjoyable film. After Shyamalan’s last string of constant disappointments, I was extremely leery of going to see another one of his films. I was surprisingly wrong as this is a good movie (for one of his, anyway). Devil gives a glimpse of the magic that Shyamalan had with his first few films such as The Sixth Sense, Unbreakable, and Signs. This movie actually shows why people continue to allow him to make movies. Devil has a really decent story with an enjoyable ending. Devil is an entertaining film that will be good film to satisfy a dreary night at home.

Death Race 2: "A Moderately Entertaining Prequel that Continues the Auto Carnage that Began in the First Film"



Rating:

***

By: Da’Mon Guy

     Death Race 2 is a mildly entertaining, action packed, showcase of car carnag that cleverly attempts to capitalize on the success of the 2008 film, Death Race. The movie is a direct to video release. This prequel stars Luke Goss (Hellboy 2: The Golden Army), Lauren Cohan (Van Wilder 2: The Rise of Taj), Ving Rhames (The Surrogates), Tanit Phoenix (Lost Boys: the Tribe), Sean Bean (The Hitcher), Fredrick Koehler (Death Race 2008), Robin Shou (Death Race 2008) and Danny Trejo (Machete).

     Death Race 2 is a sequel to the 2008 version of Death Race. This is the third film to bear the “Death Race” name. The first premiered in 1976 under the name of “Death Race 2000.” The second was the the 2008 film was a remake of the 1976 movie and the one that this movie is based upon. This movie is a prequel that establishes the beginnings of the brutal, violent race and the origin of the heralded driver, Frankenstein. Frankenstein was the fabled driver that Jason Statham’s character, Jensen Ames, replaced in the most recent Death Race film. This follow up returns a few of the same cast as it aptly fills in some of the mystery that sounded the rise of the illustrious driver, Frankenstien.

     The film is one of the rare direct to video features that actually does some credit to the motion picture original. The film has the look and some of the feel of the first film. It expands on the story of the first one. Conversely, the story is too rushed as much of the first half of it hastily whisks through the details of it to get the actual Death Race. This muddled action tale does manage to explore some key aspects that were briefly mentioned in the first film.

     This direct to video feature introduces some new characters into the storyline as well as returning some of the familiar faces from the first one. Luke Goss takes charge of the film as Carl “Frankenstein” Lucas. Goss does a believable job as the talented but doomed driver. Goss's shortcomings in the film are more about the script than his acting. The character of “Lists” (Koehler) returns in this muddled prequel. List was one of the key characters from the 2008 Death Race. He does have a larger role and this version expands on the fondness that Lists had for Frankenstein in the prior film. Katrina Banks (Phoenix) as the vicious but ambitious creator of the races was a good addition to the series. Sean Bean and Ving Rhames also do their respective parts to add to a less than stellar script.

     The action of the film is the highlight of this. The action sequences are moderately impressive as the races were recreated. All of the cars from the prior film make an appearance but nearly all of them are driven by new drivers with the exception of 14k‘s (Shou) car. The creators of the this prequel uses the same sets and cars to tie it back to the original. The races are as entertaining and brutal as the prior.

     The biggest detractor from this is the pace of the it. The film also suffers in the dialogue. Much of it feels cheesy and poorly written. The script is too rushed and tries to tie everything up too quickly. This causes the movie to feel rushed. In addition, the film’s use of slow motion sequences during the action of film were overused and unneeded. They were a clearly a detractor that hindered some really good cinematography.

     Let’s face it. This is a film about action if nothing else. Death Race 2 won’t wow you. This is a direct to video film that will not excite nor will it disappoint you. If you seen the first then you can enjoy this without some preconceived, extremely high expectations. The film does just what it’s about. It gives some mildly enjoyable action, a manageable level of brutality, with some violence thrown in. Nothing more, nothing less. It makes for a satisfactory watch to satisfy a boring night on the couch.

The Expendables: "Easily the Best Pure Action Movie in Years"



Rating:

****

By: Da’Mon Guy

     The Expendables is an action packed, star studded collaboration that returns the action movie genre to its glory days of the 80‘s and 90‘s. This commingling of talent features Sylvester Stallone (Rambo films), Jason Statham (Transporter trilogy), Jet Li (The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor), Dolph Lundgren (Rocky IV), Randy Couture (Scorpion King 2), Terry Crews (Friday After Next), Mickey Rourke (Iron Man 2), Eric Roberts (The Dark Knight), and Steve Austin (The Condemned). It also features appearances by Bruce Willis (Die Hard movies) and Arnold Schwarzenegger (The Terminator movies).

     A team of mercenaries fights to free a small country from a dictator.

     The Expendables is an action oriented, collaborative vision brought to life by its star and director, Sylvester Stallone. The film is an overdue realization for many who fell in love with some of the great action films from the 80’s as it is the dream convergence of three of Hollywood’s greatest action stars of all time. Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis, and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Stallone as the star, with Willis and Schwarzenegger making brief cameos, was a delightful realization of every action movie fan of the last few decades. This alliance was a long overdue treat to see on film. The three quickly establishes a level of camaraderie within this brief flirtation of satisfaction. Stallone, Willis, and Schwarzenegger commence a verbal jousting that is extremely brief and somewhat unsatisfying. However, the trio makes the most of the limited minutes they appear in the film.

     The film is a multiparty usage of ammunition that harkens back to the classic time when there were actual action stars and not these pseudo action imitators that have spread throughout modern movies like pestilence. Stallone, Willis, and Schwarzenegger took the characters and the movie they portrayed in and made them iconic. Each of them has at least one iconic action character under their belts. Despite their limited range in the roles of choice (except Willis), each of them truly embraced being an action star first and not as a secondary acting choice. They were “tough guys” and the we believed and loved it. Today’s modern action stars are just the opposite. They use a role here or there and try to pass themselves off in a role that is more unlike them causing the film and the character to lose plausibility. Hollywood does a disservice to the audience and the genre with these catastrophic choices.

     Each of the main characters relive some of their best roles from the 80’s-90’s. Stallone was back to form as our aging protagonist and leader, Barney Ross. The Expendables includes Hollywood’s only modern day action star, Jason Statham. He is equally impressive as Lee Christmas, Ross’s best friend and second in command of the Expendables. Statham’s fighting prowess and charisma are on full display as the crusading mercenary. Stallone and Statham had a excellent level of chemistry as the mismatched duo. The modern action star with the former star dynamic worked well for the film. Mickey Rourke does his scene stealing best as he adds a few moments of excellent entertainment as the retired conscious of the team now turned tattoo artist, Tool. As Gunner, Dolph Lundgren returns to form as the crazy, slightly deranged characters that he is best at. His line of “Warning shot” as he began the first action sequence of the film was an entertaining precursor to the initial battle. Lundgren was a scene stealer within the film. He clearly took advantage of his limited screen time. Jet Li, Terry Crews, and Randy Couture as the other members of the team are more or less “eye candy” used to fluff the story with other action stars who sign on to make the selling point of the film work. Eric Roberts stars as the lead antagonist. He does an admirable job as the potential nemesis to the star studded alliance that opposes him. Roberts was cool, collective, and entertainingly vicious as James Munroe, the now rogue CIA agent. Steve Austin adds a good cameo as Munroe’s muscle.

     This isn’t by any means a performance driven story. So don’t expcet any Academy award winning acting. Sylvester Stallone is clearly getting better as a director as this is his ninth directorial effort and best to date. Rocky Balboa, Rambo, and now the Expendables are starting to show his skill as a director. He doesn’t focus on the acting nor the plot for this. He cleverly uses the talent that he has and delivers an action filled film that is likable and believable. The man clearly knows how to put together an action flick.

     The plot isn’t the greatest nor is the delivery of the story but that’s not why you go to see this type of film. The Expendables straightforward. It’s about action and The Expendables doesn’t disappoint. It come at you from the outset. The action sequences are bold, fast, and violent. They immediately immerse you into why you came to see The Expendables. None of them disappoint as each is better then the one before. The film is a vehicle for the action and the convergence its this collaboration of stars. And what a good ride it is.

Tru Grit: "An Entertaining Return to the Days of Yesteryear"

Rating:

****
By: Da’Mon Guy

     Tru Grit is an engaging, extremely entertaining, performance driven drama set in the days of yesteryear about redemption, determination and “True Grit.” The film epitomizes the former love affair that prior generations had with the western genre. It is a showcase for an impressive, breakout performance by 14 year old Haliee Seinfield. The movie also stars Jeff Bridges (Tron: Legacy), Matt Damon (The Bourne series of films), Josh Brolin (Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps), and Barry Pepper (Seven Pounds).

     After the murder of her father, a determined young girl seeks the aid of a U.S. Marshall to bring her father’s killer to justice.

   Tru Grit is an exceptional remake of a classic 1969 movie of the same name that featured John Wayne. This latest version characterizes why the western was once the pinnacle of American film making. The movie is an excellent drama that aptly and explicitly compliments the genre. Tru Grit is an incredibly accurate recreation of the days gone by on a multitude of levels. The picture envelopes the audience into the era with the apt usage of broken dialogue as well much of the verbiage in the film are pleasantly used to give the film the richness of the old west. it also displays a brief showing of the prejudice against the American Indians during a hanging scene that adds a great level of realism to the film, instantaneously transporting the audience into the wild west.

     The film is a terrific tale of determination, redemption, and retribution. It revolves around the unwavering determination and indomitable perseverance of young Maggie Ross (Steinfeld). As we follow her pursuit of justice for the senseless murder of her father at the hands of Tom Chaney (Brolin). The theme of the film is consistent with most westerns as this story focuses on family, revenge, and good old cowboys.

     Tru Grit is highlighted by a number of outstanding performances. The are out led by youthful Maggie Ross, who is portrayed exquisitely by fourteen year old Haliee Steinfeld. Steinfeld won an open casting call in which she beat 15,000 other potential young actresses for the role. Steinfeld’s terrific performance is a masterpiece and the best in the film in spite of being cast against some Hollywood’s finest. Her remarkable portrayal is the backbone of the movie. It drives it and epitomizes the title of the film, “Tru Grit.” Steinfeld’s performance isn’t anything short of Oscar worthy.

     The film also features remarkable performances by the other actors that headline the film. Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin, and Barry Pepper each make their mark in the stirring retelling of a classic Hollywood film. The quartet unite their talents and intertwine them magnificently with the performance of Haliee Steinfeld to revisit the time of cowboys and Indians. Bridges was exceptional as the mulish Royster Cogburn. Bridges interpretation of the ornery one eyed U.S. Marshall was an entertaining indulgence to behold as his stubbornness was only exceeded by his drinking. He was the classic cowboy stereotype that helps to define the film as it was a terrific offset to the performance of Steinfeld. You can’t have a western without one. Matt Damon’s depiction of the verquashsis Laboeuf, often called Labeef in the film, was one of Damon’s best. He completes the fine trio of performances to bring this modern oddity to life. Josh Brolin and Barry Pepper also make brief but admirable appearances as the antagonist to our mismatched trio of heroes.

     Tru Grit is a high-quality film that whisks you into the wild west. While I have never seen the original, this film offers more than enough to measure up to that picture. The film features a trio of really good performances and a good story that are entertaining enough to satisfy any moviegoer. Fans of the western genre as well as those who aren’t particularly fond of the genre will be exceedingly entertained. The story as well as the breakout performance by Steinfeld makes the movie universally appealing. An enjoyable experience that everyone should see.

Resident Evil: Afterlife: A "Disappointing Addition to a Declining Series of Films"

Rating:

***

By: Da’Mon Guy

     Resident Evil: Afterlife is the latest lackluster, catastrophic sequel in the decaying Resident Evil series of films. This is fourth extremely mediocre installment in the diminishing series of films based upon the once popular Capcom game that originated in 1996. This debacle returns Mila Jovovich (Resident Evil 1-4), Ali Larter (Obsessed), Boris Kodjoe (The Surrogates), Wentworth Miller (Prison Break: TV series), Kim Coates (Silent Hill) and Shawn Roberts (I Love You, Beth Cooper).

     Alice returns to continue to battle zombies as she continues her quest to end the reign of the dreaded Umbrella corporation.

     Resident Evil: Afterlife is the fourth and most disappointing sequel in the Resident Evil series of films. This franchise is the most successful film series to be based on a video game. In spite of the success of the franchise, this newest iteration does next to nothing to extend or enhance the series. The string of films has been on the decline since the second film, Resident Evil: Apocalypse. The absurd nature of these film continues to mount as each of the sequels have become more outrageous than the previous. The story has become so far-fetched that it makes the film implausible and difficult to follow. What initially started out as a creative film that allows for an opportunity to submerge yourself within the world of a video game has become a thoughtless farce with little to no direction. The movie has become less about the story and more about the mindless action and carnage within it. The first picture in this succession of film, Resident Evil, had a fairly enjoyable storyline that was highlighted by some good-quality action sequences. As the popularity of the film increased, the story of the franchise has become less plausible as too many of the details that would solidify the story are negated for fueling the adrenaline rush for the audience. The series of films bare little to no resemblance to one another other than a few minor details within each one to tie to the one before.

     This motion picture is an unjustifiable mishap that has very minimal positives about it. It does exhibit some level of continuity as the story resumes where Resident Evil: Extinction ended. It offers a few flashbacks in between the carnage to piece together some form of a storyline that connects it to the other films. Alice is on her continuing mission to shut down the Umbrella corporation who are now responsible for the near extinction of mankind.

     The franchise finally incorporates one of the central figures from the video game, Chris Redfield (Miller) into the action. Redfield is the brother of Claire Redfield (Larter) and was the central character in most of the early games that Capcom released. He has been non existent until this film. However, R.E: Afterlife doesn’t give any clear origin for his introduction. It just flings him into the series.

     The best part of this unmitigated disaster is the action. In each of the films, Mila Jovovich is exceptional in the action aspect of these films. Jovovich is easily the best female on screen when it comes to the delivery of fighting sequences. She almost never disappoints in any of her roles as a female “bad ass” and R.E: Afterlife is no different. The action sequences are bold, exciting, and remarkable. Conversely, the film falters with trying to implement the overused concept of 3-D that Hollywood is currently pointlessly obsessing over. Too many of the action scenes are mismanaged as the parts of the sequences focused upon to give the audience the 3-D feel. While this may be good for the usage of the unwarranted concept, it kills the film. The addition of some of these sequences detract from the scenes as well as the enjoyment of them.

     Resident Evil: Afterlife is mindless dribble that reduces the story to a shell of what movie lovers have come to know and love. This film abuses the following that the film as well as fans of any of the actors that appear in it may have. It is easily something created just to make a quick buck. The senseless ending is bona fide proof of it. The story within the film is less satisfying than the ones that appear in actual games. If you want to watch Mila Jovovich truly kick some ass then watch Ultraviolet and avoid this dismal waste of time.

Mean Girls 2: A Deplorable Waste that Epitomizes the State of Today's Youth

Rating:

**

By: Da’Mon Guy

     Mean Girls 2 is a lackluster, faintly entertaining, harebrained farce that tactlessly showcases the shallowness that plagues today’s youth. This dismal calamity highlights the drama that modern society obsesses over. This dim witted catastrophe features Meaghan Martin, Maiara Martin, Jennifer Stone, Diego Gonzales Boneta, Nicole Gale Anderson, and Claire Holt. With a return by Tim Meadows (The Ladies Man)

     A well traveled teen arrives at in a small town where she is paid to befriend an outcast against a this generation version of the Plastics.

     Mean Girls 2 is the boorish, misguided mockery that attempts to capitalize on the success of a prior imaginative film. The film is a direct to dvd sequel to the successful 2004 teen comedy, Mean Girls. This poor pillage of a creative story’s name and idea faintly teeters above absurdity.

     The film is a travesty that occurs in a small town. The premise of it is identical to the original. It revolves around a series of pranks between a newcomer and a trio of mean girls in a meaningless battle for popularity within a high school. The film utilizes all of the technological addictions that today‘s youth surrender to in order to highlight and humiliate one another. Some of these pranks are mildly amusing but most of them are insensitively deplorable.

     The movie epitomizes today’s youth obsession with acceptance and technology. This motion picture is great showcase for nearly every over-enthusiastic material fixation that today’s youth unwittingly succumb to. Mean Girls 2 is a fantastic appropriation of today’s youth obsession with status, popularity, and technology. Facebook, You Tube, and text messaging. You name it and this film utilizes it. They are all at the girls disposal to dispel the carnage to dismember one another’s stranglehold on popularity.

     In spite of its shortcomings, the film has a good theme. Deeply intertwined within muddled subterfuge of this pestilence is a touching message about the value of true friendship and following one‘s dreams. In addition, the best aspect of this unmitigated disaster is that it is a great visual example that showcases an excellent message against one of today’s huge issues that plague today’s youth, bullying. It aptly displays a insightful statement about standing up for one’s self and fighting back against bullying.

     The original Mean Girls was creative and funny. It was surprisingly enjoyable. The film was filmed with some really high-quality talent. Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, and Amanda Seyfried all delivered some enjoyable performances as their battle ensued. This film just abuses the idea and rambles about for an hour and a half. This senseless debacle employs a cast of virtual unknowns to do its torturous bidding. Most of the cast are stars of cable pre teen television. The characters that this casts of novices portray are all completely self absorbed with a warped sense of reality. Conversely, Tim Meadows resumes his role from the prior film as Principal Meadows.

     Mean Girls 2 is a an extremely disappointing, overly superficial film. I don’t know if there’s any reason to sit through this film. It has extremely brief flashes of enjoyment but they are miniscule given the length of the film. However, it will aptly entertain its target audience. Most teenagers and pre teens will find some level of entertainment within it but that only testifies to how easily they are entertained. The message within the movie will be overlooked as many teens will not appreciate it. Stay away from this movie and if you can keep your teens away from it as well.

Case 39: A Rare Treat in Today's Movie Industry



Rating:

****

By: Da’Mon Guy

     In the modern era of Hollywood’s excessive usage of repugnant, obsessively gruesome movies that mask themselves as horror films, Case 39 is a taut, entertaining, suspense filled thriller that reinvigorates the genre. This film almost single-handily renews my faith in Hollywood’s ability to produce a true horror movie. The movie stars Renee Zellweger (Bridget Jones Diary), with an impressive performance by Jodelle Ferland (The Twilight Saga: Eclipse). It also features Bradley Cooper (A-Team), Ian McShane (Death Race), Callum Keith Rennie (The Invisible), Kerry O‘Malley (The Happening), and Adrian Lester (Doomsday).

     Case 39 is a fresh, enjoyable, welcome change to grotesque horror films of modern day movie making. First and foremost, this movie is actually scary. The movie is very reminiscent of classic horror films like The Omen and Rosemary’s Baby. It pays homage to those archetypes, while adding some level of originality to the existing mold. The movie uses a good plot, slowly focusing on subtle nuances that gradually builds a level of fear. This allows for the story and the details of the it to frighten you as opposed to trying to disembowel your last meal by visually revolting the audience to the point of repulsion.

     Case 39 is chocked full of deception. The opening moments of the movie is a remarkable set up. It meticulously develops a good quality suspense story from the outset. The plot is extremely well written as Lillith (Ferland), is introduced as the victim, when she appears to be the victim of these two seemingly cruel, neurotic parents. The movie terrifically executes this, effectively causing the viewer to empathize with her before making a 180 degree turn.

     The film uses a lot of subtlety as it builds the story to set you up for the tension and anxiety that it inspires. The film constantly raises the suspense, building the anticipation of the chills through the story. It does an excellent job of misdirection as it prays on your sympathies then it slowly begins to release little details about the story that gradually alter our perception of the story we have been deceived by. Step by step, the movie and the characters become something entirely different. The story is so engaging and scary that as the details of the story begin to unravel, the audience is completely submerged in disbelief. Never believing that this could be her true nature.

     The film is comprised of a number of fine performances that is headlined by young Jodelle Ferland. Ferland’s scene stealing depiction of possessed Lillith is the backbone of the film. Her stand alone performance is what makes the movie work. Ferland command of the screen was a delectable treat to watch as her acting abilities at such a young age is extremely impressive. Ferland’s aptitude to manipulate the screen was beyond extraordinary, almost eerie. She carries the film with her innocence and then her almost instantaneous transformations. Ferland’s ability to seduce the audience with the innocent appeal and her sweet voice while hiding the darkness within was beyond remarkable. One of the best scenes in the film is the scene between Ferland and Bradley Cooper. Doug (Cooper) tries to psycho analyze Lillith but she masterfully shifts the power in the conversation. Manipulating, almost bullying Doug into a corner by a pure use of words. Witnessing the sheer transformation from a timid child to the calculating, devious, menacing personality was so good that it was truly sinister. It was one of the best in a movie in some time. Renee Zellwegger as the crusading, good hearted social worker does as admirable job as our protagonist turned victim. She was perfect as the would be victim. Bradley Cooper, Ian Mcshane, and Callum Keith Rennie all add commendable supporting roles.

     Case 39 is a sound horror movie. The movie is a decent story filled with a terrific character performance. Young Jodelle Ferland’s depiction of the demonic Lillith is as impressive as any that you’ll see in a horror film. The movie isn’t a true classic but it’s a real treat because it’s a rare occurrence in modern day movie making. Its rarity is what makes the movie even better. Fans of true horror movies will appreciate Case 39 more than the average moviegoer but it is a sensible story that anyone can enjoy.
　
　

The American: A Thought Provoking, Mishandled, Introspection on the Inglorious Life of an Assassin



Rating:

***

By: Da’Mon Guy

     The American is a thought provoking, exceedingly slow paced introspection into an inglorious life of solitude that is led by contract killers. The film is an alternative visualization of the assassin genre of films. The movie stars George Clooney (Ocean’s 11, 12, & 13), Violante Placido (Fade to Black), Thekla Reuten (Highlander: The Source), Paolo Bonacelli (Mission Impossible 3), and Johan Leysen (The Brotherhood of the Wolf).

     A lonely assassin seeks refuge in Italy after an attempt on his life. Traveling to Italy for a safe haven, he begins to fall in love with a Italian prostitute. As he attempts to quit the profession, he takes one last job.

     The American is a sluggish, borish, alternative perspective of the assassin film genre. The movie explicitly showcases how abysmal the life of an assassin is. If the James Bond series of films is the Hollywood take on spy films, then The American, is the Anti-James Bond take on the genre. The film’s perspective unequivocally illustrates how the choice for this lifestyle is a existence of isolation, loneliness, and solitude.

     The theme of the movie is the solidarity and the emptiness that assassins must endure to maintain a level of anonymity. This movie goes through excessively mind-numbing measures to establish the seclusion that assassins are made to live as they are bound by their profession. The theme of the movie is admirable. It makes this a unique film. There are a number of films made that glorify the profession of killing but not many showcase the downside of the profession. This movie unmistakably exemplifies the downside of this violent style of life.

     The American is an astute observation into one of the killing professions master craftsman. The film establishes how in putting his profession first, he has lost much of the social connectivity that most take for granted. George Clooney does an admirable job as the reclusive assassin. The movie aptly details his ineptitude to be able to relate with people. Jack (Clooney) is unable to maintain a relationship of any emotional relevance and the movie does a great job at showcasing it as Jack uses very little dialogue in most of it. His inability to connect is evident in every interaction.

     The plot is very predictable but well written. Deeply intertwined in the painstaking, extremely lethargic tale is a misguided love story. Jack’s desperate search to connect leads him to the arms of a prostitute with who he establishes a connection. In spite of his high level of mistrust, Jack longs for any form of substantial human connectivity. Jack reaches out to the few people in his new surroundings. He befriends Father Benedetto and begins to establish a sexual relationship that matures into something deeper with a local hooker, Clara. As the dreary days drag on Jack finds himself opening up to the two of them. The attempt on his life and his new found relationships cause Jack to refute his profession.

     The film’s cinematography accentuates the story as the camera is used to create a feeling of insecurity. Multiple angles are used to illustrate Jack’s degree of psychosis. Many of the scene are from behind, this causes the audience to feel his sense of uncertainty and anxiety. The minimal amount of action sequences were quick and to the point. Helping to establish a level of realism in the film. The movie is about the inglorious aspect of the profession and the action sequences support the premise. Even when one of them finally occur, we are left irrefutably unsatisfied as killing should compel you to feel.

     The American has two huge detractors. First, the trailers are extremely misleading. The trailers seduces the audience to believe the movie is an action filled spy thriller and not a thought provoking introspection into the life of unsatisfying seclusion. This misdirection is a huge detractor to those who decide to see the film. The second is the pace of film. The movie moves extremely slow, almost boring to the point of exasperation. The first hour of the film is an extreme misuse of time. The film illustrates the lonely, disconcerting life of Jack by boring us to death. The film’s premise is illustrated to the point of losing the attention of the audience. This is a good thought provoking film but not an experience that I would recommend. The movie’s pace is far too slow causing you to lose sight of the theme of the movie. It’s snails pace makes the running time feel twice as long as it actually is. A good insightful perspective embedded within an extremely poor delivery.

Easy A: An Entertaining, Light Hearted Showcase of the Power of Words



Rating:

****

By Da’Mon Guy

     Easy A in an enjoyable, lighthearted, heartfelt story that comically addresses the power and consequences of words. The movie is highlighted by witty dialogue and comedic interaction between the characters. The film features an impressive performance by Emma Stone (Zombieland) with a talented ensemble cast that includes Penn Badgley (The Stepfather), Alyson Michalka (Bandslam) Amanda Byenes (She‘s The Man), Stanley Tucci (The Lovely Bones), Patricia Clarkson (Shutter Island), Thomas Hayden Church (Spiderman 3), Cam Gigandet (The Experiment), Dan Byrd (The Hills Have Eyes), Lisa Kudrow (P.S. I Love You), and Malcolm McDowell (The Book of Eli).

     After a little white lie about losing her virginity gets out, a clean cut high school girl sees her life paralleling Hester Prynne's in "The Scarlet Letter," which she is currently studying in school - until she decides to use the rumor mill to advance her social and financial standing. (Imdb.com)

       Easy A is an entertaining, jocular teen comedy that is very reminiscent of classic 80’s comedies like The Breakfast Club and Say Anything. The movie comically confronts many of the various recurring issues that face teenagers of each generation. It also showcases how every choice has a consequence. The movie’s light hearted nature doesn’t detract from the significance or the levity of the messages that are embedded within its humorous nature. The film speaks volumes about many issues such as social acceptance, self perception, the effects of lying, the power of gossip and last but not least, sex. The movie is an excellent exhibition for all them.

     Emma Stone delivers her best performance to date as the excessively sarcastic Olive Pendergrass. Stone nails the performance. The depiction is so good that seems to be second nature. She is witty and touching simultaneously. Each of Olive Pendergrass’s rousing verbal exchanges will strike some form of response. Some of them make you want to laugh, others make you want to cheer. Olive uses her sarcasm to mask her true feelings about being socially unnoticed in high school. The touching moments are as good as the sarcastic ones. After the reality of her new found false promiscuous reputation catches up to her with the actual expectation of carrying out her perceived sexual deviance, Olive is extremely dejected. When the gravity of her choices finally weigh down on her, we are all touched by her sorrow. Stone’s multifaceted portrayal of Pendergrass drives the film, forcing all of the other members of the talented ensemble cast to match.

     In addition to Emma Stone’s performance, the film is chocked full of other scene stealing performances by some good Hollywood veteran actors. Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson are enormously charming as Olive’s parents. The pair’s interaction and clever banter with Olive are some of the best in the film. Thomas Hayden Church is also commendable as Mr. Griffith. Malcolm McDowell and Amanda Bynes also add to the comedic wordplay of Easy A. Each verbal swapping between Pendergrass and one of the other characters is as humorous as the previous one.

     The only detractor from the movie was the level of sarcasm that each of the characters was able to use in every exchange. Olive hyper level of sarcasm was to be expected and applauded in most of the exchanges. However, every verbal interchange became an excessive display of verbiage. This was entertaining but it detracts from the audience’s level of belief in the characters.

     Easy A is an entertaining, fun movie. The film is highlighted by well acted characters with good character interactions, and full of sharp dialogue. The movie is a very enjoyable as it was clearly inspired by some of the John Hughes classic coming of age films of the 80’s (Pretty in Pink, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off). The plot is skillfully written which allows for Olive’s story to cover multiple aspects of high school life, allowing the audience to be able to relate to it at one time or another during each of our high school years. That coupled with Stone’s extraordinary portrayal of Olive Pendergrass gives Easy A an universal appeal that transcends gender and generation. The film is a great movie for all to see.

The A-Team: "Finally, the Raping of the 80's Pays Off!"



Rating:

****

By Da’Mon Guy

     The Hollywood excavation of the 80’s finally bears some fruition. The re-imagining of The A-Team is a superb, action packed, updating of the classic television show that was created by Stephen A. Cannel & Frank Lupo. The motion picture version unites Liam Neeson (Taken), Bradley Cooper (The Hangover), Sharto Cooper (District 9), and Quinton “Rampage” Jackson (Never Surrender) as they attempt to bring the iconic television characters to the silver screen. The film also features Jessica Biel (Valentine‘s Day), with appearances by Brian Bloom (Smokin‘ Aces), Patrick Wilson (Watchmen), and Gerald McRainey (Get Low).

     The motion picture debut of the A-Team is a terrific intermingling of action and comedy. It aptly displays all of the elements that made the television show popular. The movie has the same light hearted comedic aspects just as the television did, which enhances the camaraderie between the quartet of stars. The film’s creators did their homework as the film has the look and the feel of the television show.

     The plot of the film is a compliment to the television series as well. The movie duly sheds some light on the origin of team Alpha or A-Team. It successfully incorporates intricate nuances that made the television show popular as well as giving some keen insight into the some of the show’s unanswered questions such as B.A’ fear of flying and why the A-Team was on the run in the first place. The film even manages to squeeze in an appearance by the television show‘s long time pursuer of the A-Team, Col. Dekker.

     There are only a couple of hindrances to the movie version of The A-Team. While the film does give some insight into the origin of the team, it does a poor job at giving a satisfactory origin for all of the members. The movie opens with Hannibal (Neeson) attempted to rescue “Face” (Cooper). After a planned escape, Hannibal randomly meets B.A. (Jackson) in the middle of the desert as he attempts to steal his van. After a quick conversation where the two share tattoo stories, B.A. is on for the long haul. This was clearly a load of crap as the writers could’ve have found a better way to introduce the characters to one another. Especially when in the television series, B.A. and Hannibal were more often on the same page as opposed to the rest of the team. In addition, the movie’s conclusion wasn’t the typical A-Team finale. Hannibal didn’t have the master plan at work and we didn’t have the usual B.A. ingenious mechanical creation to aid in the completion of the mission. Conversely, the film did try to incorporate this within the course of the film.

     The big screen adaptation of The A Team works because of its casting. Each member of the new casts aptly compliments their predecessors. All of the members of the new version pay homage and exceeds what the prior cast began. While each member may not be as iconic, they certainly make the characters their own.

     Liam Neeson, Bradley Cooper, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, and Sharlto Cooper are terrifically casts as the fugitive heroes. The quartet’s on screen chemistry was nearly as good as the original. Liam Neeson may not have the “swag” that George Peppard had as the calculating Col. Hannibal Smith, but he is convincing as the pre television adventures version of Smith. Bradley Cooper matches and in some ways surpasses Dirk Benedict’s portrayal of the womanizing Lt. Templeton “Face” Peck. Cooper has the look and the charm as he induces his own charisma into the role. “Rampage” Jackson is an effective Cprl. B.A. Baracas. He had the most difficult character to measure up to as Mr. T’s iconic look and performance defined the television show. Jackson attempts to induce some of Mr. T’s iconic verbiage but his attempts are some futile. Jackson’s mismanaged attempt is not as entertaining nor does he possess the pizzazz but he is acceptable. Sharlto Cooper’s over the top recreation of the seemingly neurotic Capt. H. M. “Howling Mad” Murdock was easily the best of the four recreations. Copper’s scene stealing comedic nature was one of the best aspects of the movie. Cooper easily outshined the rest of his cast mates. Jackson and Cooper was able to recreate the chemistry demonstrated by Mr. T and Dwight Schultz as Murdock and B. A’s rivalry was renewed. The rivalry was one of the key elements that helped to define the original show. Jackson and Cooper revoke nostalgia as they nail the antagonistic, sarcasm laced bond between B.A. and Murdock.

     I really enjoyed the big screen version of The A-Team. As a fan of the show I was a little leery of a movie version because of my affinity for the original cast and television show. This is one of the few of today’s “re-imaginings” that is actually as good as the original. The big screen feature of The A-Team put my fears to rest as the film is very good. Nearly every member of the new cast is as entertaining as the original. The story of the film also does the television show justice as it perfectly fits into the cannon of the show. The movie is universally appealing as fans of the TV show will enjoy as well as being appealing to those who have never didn’t follow the show.

Cats and Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore: Furry Family Friendly Fun

Rating:

***½

By: Da’Mon Guy

     Cats and Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore is a delightful, family friendly, humorous parody that comically personifies the battle between felines and canines. This latest film is the follow up to the original Cats and Dogs film that premiered in 2001. The film features the voice talents of Christina Applegate (Married with Children: TV series), Michael Clarke Duncan (Welcome Home, Roscoe Jenkins), James Marsden (X-Men trilogy), Neal Patrick Harris (Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle), Nick Nolte (Tropic Thunder), Bette Midler (The Stepford Wives), Roger Moore (James Bond films), Sean Hayes (Soul Men), Joe Pantoliano (Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightening Thief) and Kat Williams (First Sunday). With an appearance by Chris O’Donnell (Max Payne).

     In the age-old battle between cats and dogs, one crazed feline has taken things a paw too far. Kitty Galore, formerly an agent for cat spy organization MEOWS, has gone rogue and hatched a diabolical plan to not only bring her canine enemies to heel, but take down her former kitty comrades and make the world her scratching post. Faced with this unprecedented threat, cats and dogs will be forced to join forces for the first time in history in an unlikely alliance to save themselves -- and their humans. (Imdb.com)

     The film is a humorous spoof that uses the ancient conflict between cats and dogs as a foundation for the film. The movie uses the spy genre, turning the cats and the dogs into spies, as they battle one another to protect the humans. It humorously incorporates multiple references to classic films such as The Silence of the Lambs, Men In Black, The James Bond series of films, and Batman to name a few.

       Cats and Dogs 2: The Revenge of Kitty Galore cleverly intertwines many of the antiquated phases that apply to the longstanding interaction between dog and cats. This is done through both visual displays as well as being incorporated verbally. The witty comedic wordplay between the characters embrace the dispute, in addition, it enhances the feel of the movie. It makes the personification of the animals feel more realistic, as well as very humorous.

     The movie is highlighted by an all star voice cast. Nearly every character in the film is voiced by a marquee Hollywood name. The film is highlighted by the ongoing jokes of Kat Williams character Seamus and by Mr. Tinkles (Hayes) who makes a return from the first film. He has some scene stealing appearances that are very comical. Mr. Tinkles is now imprisoned for his crimes against mankind and canine after the first movie. This film uses the Silence of the Lambs as a theme for the imprisonment of the former arch nemesis of the dogs.

     Overall, Cats and Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore is a really good family film. The parodies involving the different movies will increase the level of enjoyment for adults but the kids will most certainly enjoy it. Some of it is borderline ridiculous but hey, it’s a kids movie. The children will definitely get a kick out of it and adults can find some level of enjoyment as well.