Author Archives: Keith Garlington

REVIEW: “Captain Phillips”

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CAPTAIN POSTER

It has been praised by critics as a thrilling movie and berated by former crew members as grossly inaccurate. “Captain Phillips” has hit the theaters and there has been no shortage of fun things to read about it. Prior to seeing it, several things about the movie attracted my interest. First, I was interested in seeing what director Paul Greengrass would bring to the story. He’s a director that I have a love/hate relationship with. Second, this looked like a role that could equal a comeback of sorts for Tom Hanks.

“Captain Phillips” is a biopic taken from the book “A Captain’s Duty”. It follows the story of Richard Phillips, the captain of the Maersk Alabama which was hijacked by Somali pirates in 2009. Tom Hanks plays the title character who tries to get himself and his crew to safety after pirates board his container ship while crossing the Indian Ocean. The film doesn’t waste much time in terms of setup. It quickly gets to the meat and potatoes of the story which is the boarding of the Alabama by pirates and the attempted rescue of Captain Phillips and his crew.

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This story seems perfect for the conventional Hollywood big budget treatment. But to my surprise “Captain Phillips” steers clear of those trappings. Billy Ray’s smart and calculated script focuses on what’s important. While Greengrass’ direction ratchets up the intensity and always maintains a sense of urgency, it’s Ray’s writing that keeps us thoroughly invested in Captain Phillips and his plight. There is a time just past the midway point where I felt a sequence was drawing out further than necessary, but as a whole this is real ‘edge of your seat’ stuff.

But make no mistake, Tom Hanks is the real driving force. Hanks was once the king of the Hollywood hill but it could be said that he hasn’t had a great attention-grabbing performance since 2002 and “Road to Perdition”. His work in “Captain Phillips” clearly ends that streak. His performance here is in line with some of the best work of his career. He captures the bravery and heroism of the character while also grounding him by showing the sheer terror he experiences. And his final scene moved me so much and it alone may have cemented this as my favorite performance of the year.

I also have to mention the performance of Barkhad Abdi. This first time Somali-born actor plays Muse, the leader of the Somali hijackers. We first see Muse at his village where he and other fishermen are ordered by soldiers of a local warlord to hijack some passing ships. There is clearly an intent to evoke a thread of sympathy for Muse and his circumstances. Overall it worked dramatically although it was never that convincing. But back to Abdi, it’s clear he’s not a seasoned actor but he’s exactly what his role called for. His demeanor, his expressions, his broken English – it all works to make his character completely convincing. It’s a really good performance.

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There are so many things I enjoyed about this film. Watching Captain Phillips and Muse as they try to read and measure each other is fascinating. The two share so many fantastic scenes. The direction from Paul Greengrass is very effective despite his patented hyperactive camera. He keeps your heart racing and leaves you emotionally spent. The military’s arrival adds a whole new dynamic to the story. It’s exhilarating and never devolves into an action movie cliché. And then of course there is the towering performance from Tom Hanks. He’s back to his finest form and this is clearly Oscar worthy work.

In a movie year filled with mediocrity, it’s great to see a film like “Captain Phillips”. Yes Greengrass makes his usual political points that are too on the nose and the slightly sympathetic portrayal of the pirates does feel a bit contrived. But these things aren’t nearly as blatant or distracting as in some of his past efforts. It’s a smart and effective thriller that keeps itself within reasonable bounds. I don’t know how much truth is in the movie, but I do know it really works on a cinematic level. I also know it’s one of the best films I’ve seen this year.

VERDICT – 4.5 STARS

5 Phenomenal Movie Rescues

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movie_theatre - Phenom 5

This week’s Phenomenal 5 list has been rolling around in the back of my mind for a long time. I’ve attempted to put it together on many occasions but I was never able to narrow it down to just five. With “Captain Phillips” hitting the theaters the time is perfect. So today we’re looking at five phenomenal movie rescues. I can’t tell you how long the list was of movies I wanted to include. Narrowing it down to 10 was a chore – 5 was almost impossible. There have been so many great rescues throughout the history of cinema. So considering that, I would never call this the definitive list. But I will say without hesitation that these five movie rescues are certainly phenomenal.

#5 – “BLACK HAWK DOWN”

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It started as a quick snatch-and-go operation in Somalia. Delta Force and Ranger units are dispatched to capture the top advisers to the brutal warlord Aidid. But one small mishap sends the mission into chaos. Soldiers get separated and two Black Hawk choppers get shot down in the middle of the occupied city. Under the mantra “No one gets left behind”, the soldiers who made it out head right back into the danger to save their comrades. Heroism, sacrifice, and loss follow in some of the grittiest and most believable combat ever put on film. This is a Ridley Scott masterpiece and a great movie rescue.

#4 – “TAXI DRIVER”

TAXI

This certainly wouldn’t qualify as the most traditional inclusion on this list, but Travis Bickle’s rescue of young Iris from the clutches of a dirty pimp is certainly a memorable one. Bickle clearly isn’t the most stable of heroes and his motivations may be cloudy at best, but his actions definitely made a huge impact on Iris’ life. Violent, startling, and unforgettable, “Taxi Driver” features one of the most well known endings in cinema delivered from the great Martin Scorsese. It’s also a great rescue that I had to include on this list.

#3 – “THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS”

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I can honestly say that Michael Mann’s “The Last of the Mohicans” is one of my all time favorite movies. It’s a brilliant adaptation featuring fantastic action, a great love story, beautiful locations and music, and yes even a great movie rescue. [SPOILER] The film’s amazing finale takes place high on the cliffs of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With the captive Alice Munro being escorted by the evil Huron Magua to his village, a headfirst rescue attempt by Uncas doesn’t go well. But his father isn’t far behind and the final showdown in this tragic ending is unforgettable. There are so many great things about this film and the big rescue attempt at the end is near the top of that list.

#2 – “ARGO”

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Ben Affleck’s Oscar winning “Argo” is an entire movie centered around one amazing and daring rescue attempt. It follows the incredible rescue of six United States diplomats trapped inside a hostile Tehran, Iran during the 1979 Iran hostage crisis. It moves through the planning and eventual edge-of-your-seat execution of this seemingly absurd plan. “Argo” is filled to the brim with tension and suspense. It’s such a phenomenal true story and watching it all under Affleck’s skillful direction is pure joy. It’s a great movie and a great movie rescue.

#1 – “RETURN OF THE JEDI”

JEDI

Hopefully my position as a full-fledged Star Wars geek won’t disqualify this choice in some readers eyes. I say that because even without my bias, the rescue of Han Solo from Jabba’s lair is one of the greatest movie rescues of all time. I love that whole sequence. The film opens with Luke, Leia and company carrying out their plan to rescue their captive friend on Tatooine. It involves infiltration, a bit of trickery, and then an escape. But things go wrong leading to their capture. Things play out and soon we’re outside with Han, Luke, and Chewie about to be executed via the Sarlacc Pit. A fantastic battle breaks out featuring light sabers, lasers, and even Boba Fett. It’s one of my favorite Star Wars action scenes and it’s a phenomenal movie rescue.

So there a five of the best movie rescues. There are so many out there that I could include. I can’t wait to read who you would have included. Please share your favorites in the comments below.

REVIEW: “Haute Cuisine”

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Haute_Cuisine Poster

I’m not a person who cares about cooking shows or who spends a ton of time watching The Food Network. But if you do then I can imagine that you will find a lot to like in the new French film “Haute Cuisine”. But you don’t have to be a food aficionado to find enjoyment in director Christian Vincent’s tasty concoction. There’s a lot to like despite its few structural issues that ultimately keep it from being even better than it is.

“Haute Cuisine” is loosely based on the true story of Danièle Delpeuch and her surprise appointment as private chef to French President François Mitterrand. Here the lead character is Hortense Laborie (Catherine Frot), a well regarded chef living on the French countryside. She is brought to Paris where she reluctantly accepts the President’s appointment as his private chef. Once there Hortense faces a variety of obstacles including the male-dominated main kitchen, overly concerned Presidential staffers, and a ridiculous level of formality.

We are told her story through a bit of fractured storytelling. The movie starts with Hortense preparing her last meal of sorts for the workers at a French Research facility in Antarctica. A snoopy Australian reporter learns that she was once the private chef to the French president. Believing there must be a scandalous reason for her move from luxury and prominence to austerity and isolation, the reporter begins seeking out the story which we are told via flashbacks.

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Hortense is a confident and spunky woman. She takes her cooking seriously whether at a remote station or the royal palace. Back in Paris this quickly annoys some people yet endears her to others. As the flashbacks started I remember fearing that the movie was about to fall into a familiar, overused formula. Actually it never does. Hortense never becomes one of those ‘fight the system’ comic characters that we get in a lot of American movies. She’s very different than that and she maintains a sympathetic and relatable personality through the entire picture.

Another plus is that the film doesn’t fall into the customary biopic trappings. It’s certainly based on a true story, but it clearly wants you to know it is its own story. Even the character’s name changes separate it and helps free it from the constraints that strict biographical movies are held by. I really liked that.

But without a doubt the film’s greatest strength is found in Catherine Frot. She is simply fabulous and gives one of my favorite performances of the year. In one scene she has her character commanding the kitchen. In the next scene we see her shuttering under the pressures of her new responsibilities. Frot easily sells it all through her genuine and measured performance.

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Unfortunately “Haute Cuisine” does have a few blemishes that I just couldn’t give passes to. First, the storytelling is a bit clunky specifically in the opening and ending of the flashback story. She arrives in Paris and is more or less tossed into her new position with very little explanation or buildup. That’s not a big deal because the movie is focused on a specific time frame. But I did find it a bit jarring. The wrapup of the flashback story was somewhat worse. It basically just ends with several questions up in the air and a couple of character loose ends. The film also features A LOT of gastronomic lingo that die-hard food fans will probably love. And I do mean A LOT! I often had no clue what they were talking about which was a little frustrating.

Aside from those gripes “Haute Cuisine” really worked for me. And while the flashback conclusion may have left me wanting more, the film’s main ending was fantastic and left me completely satisfied. This is a film full of charm, a touch of humor, and one great performance from Catherine Frot. It may not be saying anything big or provocative, but it certainly accomplishes what it sets out to do.

VERDICT – 3.5 STARS

REVIEW: “Gravity”

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Gravity Poster

“Gravity” had an interesting ad campaign leading to its release. The trailers and TV spots practically told us nothing about the story. Astronauts are in space. A terrible accident occurs. That’s it. Yet there was something so attractive and intriguing about what we are shown. Throw in two top Hollywood A-listers (George Clooney and Sandra Bullock) and an intriguing director and “Gravity” quickly became one of my more anticipated films.

Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron co-wrote, co-produced, and directed this film which could best be described as a space drama/thriller/survival tale soaked in intensity and pure visual splendor. Cuaron has a solid track record and critics have already heaped a ton of praise on him for “Gravity”. But in my experience enthusiasm from critics doesn’t always point to a great film. So my one big concern remained as I walked in for my Rave Xtreme Screen viewing of “Gravity”. Would it be a gorgeous spectacle filled with stunning eye candy but nothing else to really chew on?

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First off there’s definitely more to “Gravity” that snazzy visuals. In fact, one of the film’s strengths is its ability to not only define its characters but to develop a strong and ultimately moving deeper meaning all within its limited space and with its limited dialogue. Much of this is a direct result of the ingenious writing from Cuaron and his son/co-writer Jonas. Their script is smart and strategic giving us morsels of information that over time paint a satisfying picture of who these characters are.

Even more compelling are the numerous themes which “Gravity” touches on. From being a testament to the resiliency of the human spirit to what I found to be a deeper and more personal spiritual meaning, “Gravity” is one of those rare gems that can touch people in a variety of different ways. The Cuarons clearly have this in mind but their execution of it all is nearly flawless. And while the visuals often take center stage, they are simply there to emphasize these greater points.

But perhaps the most affecting theme involves the clever imagery and references to infancy. The first I noticed involved a character floating in a zero gravity fetal position similar to a baby in a mother’s womb. At first I thought it was a slick homage but then I noticed other things. There are several childlike reactions and one particular scene where the same character, in a state of despair, talks in very childlike terms about never being shown how to pray. The infancy metaphor is wrapped up in the film’s fabulous final shot. The idea of starting over, being reborn, and standing up to embrace a new life is beautiful in both message and presentation. It’s that final shot and its stirring message that solidified my love for this picture.

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Oh, and did I mention this film takes place in space? While I may have been surprised that this movie had as much emotional pop as it did, I wasn’t a bit surprised that it looked so good. Quite honestly this is one of the most visually stimulating experiences I’ve had at the theater in some time. With the exception of one brief scene, the entire film takes place in the Earth’s orbit. In this setting Cuaron captures both the vastness of space and the claustrophobic confines of spacesuits, space stations, and space shuttles. I found it to be extremely effective. There were also moments where I was caught up in the sheer beauty of what I was seeing.

But the effects really reach a new level once a catastrophic accident occurs which propels the main story. The mind-blowing realism of these scenes are amazing. They ratchet up the intensity by drawing you in and I constantly found myself trying to dodge shrapnel or blinking for fear of being struck by debris. Those reactions are one reason this film should be seen on the biggest screen possible. It also features the rarity of some well implemented 3D. Now I don’t think the 3D was utilized as well as it could have been, but it certainly had those moments that really stood out.

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And I have to give props to the two wonderful performances from George Clooney and Sandra Bullock. Clooney is rock solid as always and some of the film’s best lines belong to his character. But this is really Bullock’s movie and she knocks it out of the park. She flawlessly handles all of the physical and emotional requirements of her character and she’s a vital component to the film’s success. It was also cool hearing Ed Harris’ voice as Houston mission control (“Apollo 13” anyone). He’s just one of several tips of the hat that “Gravity” throws out there.

I haven’t said much about the story and that’s intentional. The less you know going in the better. To be honest, there’s not a lot of story there. Yet when mixed with the assortment of thought-provoking motifs and breathtaking atmosphere, it seems perfect for its 90 minute package. I’m really curious about how it views on a smaller screen and if people will think as highly of the film a few years down the road. But for me the initial experience was unforgettable. Completely original, strikingly bold, and brilliantly made. It’s a movie that actually lives up to its hype and it should be a sure-fire contender come Oscar night.

VERDICT – 5 STARS

5 STARSs

5STAR K&M

Your Voices: On Jack Black

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Your Voices

Your Voices is a simple concept created to encourage conversation and opinions between movie lovers. It works like this: I throw out a certain topic. After that I’ll make my case or share my opinions. Then it’s time for Your Voices. Head to the comments section and let fellow readers and moviegoers know your thoughts on the topic for that day!

Jack-Black

I fully admit that this is a rather odd topic for a Your Voices feature but what the heck. Jack Black is an actor whose popularity quite honestly baffles me. His brand of comedy and peculiar acting style has certainly resonated with many moviegoers. His filmography is certainly diverse. He has dabbled in an assortment of films including all kinds of comedy, family films, animation, and even big budget adventures.

But let me be honest. I’m no fan of Jack Black. In fact, I would go as far as saying that he is one of the most annoying actors in movie’s today. With the exception of one movie (“Bernie”), none of his films stick with me and most of his performances and roles leave me wishing I had spent my time doing something else. He is one of those few actors who instantly turns me off of any movie he stars in. I thought he was fabulous in “Bernie” so maybe that is a sign of things to come. But as of now I’m not holding my breath.

YOUR VOICES: What are your thoughts on Jack Black? Are you a fan?

So now it’s time for Your Voices. What are your thoughts on Mr. Black? Are you an official Jack Black fan club member or do you distance yourself from his movies the way I do? Are you excited whenever you hear his name attached to a project? Please head to the comments section and let Your Voices be heard.

5 Phenomenal Hostage Movies

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movie_theatre - Phenom 5

When doing a list of “hostage movies” there is a wide variety of films to consider. So for this week’s Phenomenal 5 I decided to exclude movies featuring kidnappings as well as P.O.W. pictures. Both seemed to make the category too broad and both could easily have their own Phenomenal 5 list. But even with those omissions there were plenty of great hostage movies to consider. It was hard to narrow my list down, but these five movies fit perfectly. As always, I wouldn’t call this the definitive list. But there’s no denying that these five hostage films are absolutely phenomenal.

#5 – “AIR FORCE ONE (1997)

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This is certainly one of the more unique hostage movies. U.S. President Harrison Ford, his family, and staff are held hostage aboard Air Force One by Russian terrorists led by Gary Oldman. The fact that the movie is confined to an airborne plane adds several interesting dynamics that work really well. Ford is a believable president and Oldman, while a little hammy at times, plays a good baddie. Sure, “Air Force One” requires a certain suspension of disbelief, but it’s still a hostage movie that’s a lot of fun.

#4 – “THE DELTA FORCE” (1986)

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Ok, I know “The Delta Force” is sometimes emotionally manipulative and features several preposterous action scenes. But it also nicely melds elements of the 1980’s action pictures with the real-life hijacking of a TWA jet in 1985. While Chuck Norris is as wooden as ever, a nice supporting cast featuring Lee Marvin, Joey Bishop, Shelly Winters, Robert Vaughn, Martin Balsam, and Robert Forster make up for it. The film incorporates several true-to-life incidents surrounding the hijacking which makes the movie feel more grounded even in the midst of motorcycle rocket launchers and Chuck Norris one-liners. Call it a nostalgic pick, but “The Delta Force” is a solid hostage film.

#3 – “KEY LARGO” (1948)

Key Largo

John Huston’s “Key Largo” marked the final time Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall worked together onscreen. But it’s also one of the best hostage movies ever. Bogart visits a Key Largo hotel ran by a deceased army buddy’s father and falls for Bacall while there. But things really amp up when some hotel guests turn out to be gangsters led by Edward G. Robinson. Once their identity is revealed, the gang takes over the hotel. To make things worse a hurricane is approaching which keeps them stuck in the hotel but gives the audience some fantastic and memorable moments. This isn’t just a great hostage movie, it’s a great Bogart flick.

#2 – “DIE HARD” (1988)

Die Hard

1988’s “Die Hard” is the movie that made Bruce Willis a big screen movie star. It could be argued that this is the quintessential hostage movie. Willis’ John McClane attends a Christmas party with his estranged wife at the Nakatomi Plaza skyscraper. A group of terrorists led by Hans Gruber (played wonderfully by Alan Rickman) take over the building and hold the partygoers hostage with the exception of a barefooted McClane. He picks off Gruber’s men from the ground floor to the rooftop and gives us memorable scene after memorable scene. “Die Hard” is a straightforward picture that is the near perfect mix of hard-nosed action, well placed humor, and great side characters. No hostage movie list would be complete without it.

#1 – “THE PETRIFIED FOREST” (1936)

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Yep, it’s Humphrey Bogart’s second appearance on the list but it’s certainly well deserved. In “The Petrified Forest” he plays Duke Mantee, a gangster on the run from a huge police manhunt. Duke and his gang end up busting into an Arizona diner and hold everyone there hostage. Some of the film’s best moments involve Bogart sitting in the diner verbally sparring back and forth with the hostages including Leslie Howard and Bette Davis. Edward G. Robinson was the first choice to play Duke but Howard pushed for Bogart who eventually got the part. And thank goodness he did. There are a lot of good hostage films, but for me “The Petrified Forest” is the best of the bunch.

Agree or disagree? Do you have a hostage movie that I should have included? Leave a comment below, share your thoughts, or tell me your favorite hostage movie.