[8.25/10] Zero Dark Thirty (2012)

Zero Dark Thirty (2012)

Brief review: Oscar-winning director Kathryn Bigelow succeeds yet again with another bold and daring project for the manhunt of enemy No. 1, Osama bin Laden, based on actual events. Bigelow lets us witness the near decade operation, revealing interesting details and hidden facts, making the experience not only gripping, but informative as well. The films also benefits from Kathryn Bigelow's incredible ability to keep things as realistic, and plausible as possible. There's nothing exaggerated, or Hollywood-ish about this movie, even when the action kicks in. The whole thing is stripped down to the bone, but that only helps to Bigelow for maintaining the intensity level, even when the film is slow and talky. The last 30 minutes are so thrilling, you may find yourself on the edge of your seat, but unfortunately the climax, namely the killing of Osama is nothing special really, hence, it may leave you slightly unsatisfied. Featuring lots of hand-held, camera work, intentionally simplistic cinematography, and washed-out colors, "Zero Dark Thirty" has a slightly documentary-ish feel about it that works to its advantage, plus, there's a certain grittiness to Kathryn Bigelow's shooting style, that adds further realism to the story. The film wouldn't be as great without Jessica Chastain's award-worthy performance as the workaholic CIA officer, Maya, whose angelesque femininity contrasts beautifully with her self-confidence and often intense personality, and the rest of the cast all do a brilliant job as well.

Overall summary: It drags a bit in the first half, and the slaying of bin Laden could have been  way more dramatic, but nonetheless "Zero Dark Thirty" is a smartly-scripted, superbly-made, and truly engrossing piece of cinema, jam-packed with sheer, nearly obsessive intensity.

[8.25/10] The Impossible (2012)

The Impossible (2012)

Brief review: Brought by the creator of "The Orphanage", Juan Antonio Bayona, "The Impossible" is a based-on-a-true-story disaster drama, and also the director's first English-language effort. Ironically enough, Bayona achieves pretty much the impossible, not only by delivering one of the most technically-impressive films of the year, but also by telling an emotional story about hope, faith, fear, and despair, but above all the power of human spirit. "The Impossible" isn't all about the disaster itself, but the terrifying consequences of it, and one family's struggles and their fight for survival The film is filled with horrifying images of destruction, pain, suffering and sorrow, that are so devastating at times, they might bring you to tears, but the constant tension, suspense and anticipation of what's about to happen, save the film from being purely depressing. Visually, "The Impossible" is impossible to fault, really. If you thought the Tsunami sequence in Clint Eastwood's "Hereafter" was amazing, wait to see the one in this movie. The big Tsunami overflow is so effective and perfectly-executed, it makes you wonder how did they actually manage to accomplish that, and make it looks so incredibly realistic. Same goes for the scenes showing the destroyed environment after the Tsunami. Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor are both convincing and brilliantly believable in their difficult roles, but it's Tom Holland, that really makes a big impression with his truly inspiring powerhouse performance.

Overall summary: Devastatingly heart-wrenching, powerfully-acted, terrifyingly realistic and technically flawless, Bayona's "The Impossible" is a disaster film at its finest, one that manages to keep you one the edge of your seat from start to finish, as well as move you deeply.

[8.25/10] Frankenweenie (2012)

Frankenweenie (2012)

QuickRating: Paying homage to such classics as "Pet Sematary" and "Godzilla", Burton's "Frankenstein" inspired stop-motion horror spoof "Frankenweenie" is crafted with big love, care, and passion, and that shows through the lively, superbly-written and designed characters,  and darkly stunning black-and-white visuals. Although typically grim and Gothic in tone and look, this film has a truly endearing story that will melt your heart, as well as humor that will make you smile and cheer.

[8.25/10] The Tall Man (2012)

The Tall Man (2012)

Brief review: Don't get mislead by the seemingly hackneyed premise, because" Martyrs" director Pascal Laugier's first-ever English-language feature film, "The Tall Man", is like nothing what you’d expect at all. The first half may be fairly clichéd and pretty straightforward, but that’s just part of Laugier’s clever plan. He wants to mess with your head and leave you with the impression that this is yet another generic horror film about an unknown stranger kidnapping little kids, then halfway through, he throws a curveball that makes you realize nothing in this film is what it seems. From that turning point on, "The Tall Man" starts to play more and more tricks with your mind, right until the very end, when everything falls into place and begins to make perfect sense. "The Tall Man" is definitely not your average kidnapping movie, but something much more than that—it’s unsettling in its realism, intelligent in its approach and profoundly genius in its slick execution. The isolated setting and gloomy cinematography match with the mysterious tone of the film, and Pascal Laugier’s capable direction successfully maintains the intensity of the story. Jessica Biel gives a solid “comeback” performance as the caring, yet shifty town nurse, the oddly adorable Jodelle Ferland makes the film even more engaging than it already is, Stephen McHattie is great as the police detective, Lt. Dodd, and the supporting cast do their best.

Overall summary: It’s no "Martyrs", but Laugier’s latest shocker, "The Tall Man", is still a thought-provoking, deeply disturbing and strangely captivating horror thriller with a great message, filled with mind-boggling twists and turns, that will haunt you long after the credits roll.

Read (and comment on) the extended version of my "Tall Man" review, written exclusively for White Cat Magazine HERE.

[8.25/10] Chronicle (2012)

Chronicle (2012)

Brief review: So far, we've had tons of POV / Found Footage horror films, but Josh Trank's debut feature, "Chronicle", has to be the first-ever sci-fi flick shot in this style. Luckily, the hand-held filming technique adds some authenticity to the already clever story with a refreshing spin on the concept of superheroes, and truth to be told, if the movie wasn't presented this way, it wouldn't have been as effective. While the first half of "Chronicle" is mostly 'fun', where the characters enjoy their newly-gained superpowers and play harmless games with them, the second half gets a whole lot darker - the anger unleashes, the violence starts to dominate, and the consequences become disastrous. The chaos-fueled superpowers (imagine X-Men's Magneto, but without the 'metal only' limitation) match well with Trank's inventive and energetic direction, the special effects are pretty much impeccable most of the time, and the action sequences are visually-astonishing, exciting, and heart-pumpingly spectacular, featuring lots of smashed cars, destroyed buildings, fast moving objects and even Superman-like flying. Both, Alex Russell and Michael B. Jordan deliver solid and convincing performances, but it's Dane DeHaan, that steals the show as the anti-social teenager, Andrew, who tries to cope with his repressed anger, aggressive father, deathly sick mother and out-of-this-world telekinetic powers all at once.

Overall summary: Seemingly fun on the outside, yet darkly grim within, "Chronicle" is an imaginatively-crafted and highly entertaining sci-fi flick, that not only impresses with its creative take on the superhero genre, but also manages to use the POV gimmick to its advantage.

[8.25/10] Drive (2011)

Drive (2011)

QuickRating: A seamless blend of full throttle action, shocking violence and unexpected romance, "Drive" is a moody, yet tasteful, compelling, and extraordinarily stylish art-house action thriller, masterfully helmed by Refn, who combines a sharply clever script with an outstanding direction, subtle thrills, dramatic music score and deeply engaging characters, to deliver probably the biggest cinematic surprise of 2011. Plus, Ryan Gosling turns in an absolutely incredible performance.

[8.25/10] Hanna (2011)

Hanna (2011)

Brief review: Although it has a couple of dull moments, and a few rather unnecessary scenes, Joe Wright's latest flick is a fast-paced, intense and fantastically-crafted thrill ride, that delivers the goods. "Hanna" is nothing short of captivating, visually, due to Wright's dynamically versatile, yet sophisticated direction, the beautifully washed-out color palette of the cinematography, and the various stunning locations used in the film. Furthermore, "Hanna" 'sounds' as cool as it looks, thanks to Chemical Brothers' original music score, filled with intense electronic beats that prepare the viewer for action. Speaking of action, "Hanna" is not only wonderfully-choreographed, but also creative and edge-of-your-seat thrilling. Acting-wise, "Hanna" succeeds vastly because of its top-notch cast. Saoirse Ronan is a true force of nature in her difficult role as Hanna, who discovers the world for the first time. Her sweet, innocent look contrasts with her daring, fierce spirit, and despite her superhuman strength and abilities, Ronan is thoroughly believable as the title character. One of the finest actresses working today, Cate Blanchett, delivers an outstanding performance as the cold-blooded Marissa, and the insanely underrated Eric Bana gives another solid performance as the bold, protectful father of Hanna, Erik.

Overall summary: Thanks to its unique premise, brilliant execution, impressive variety of settings, and Saoirse Ronan's show-stealing performance, "Hanna" is not only a true breath of fresh air into the genre, but also one of the most clever and spectacularly entertaining action thrillers of the past few years.

[8.25/10] Made In Dagenham (2010)

Made In Dagenham (2010)

Brief review: Dealing with sexual discrimination under the slogan “Equal pay! Equal rights!”, "Made In Dagenham" is an incredibly uplifting experience, that inspires and informs, as well as entertains. The fantastic Sally Hawkins gives another tour-de-force performance as the sassy, temperamental Rita. Her quirky charm is so captivating, it's hard to take your eyes off of her. Jaime Winstone and Rosamund Pike both deliver outstanding supporting performances, and the lovely Miranda Richardson totally steals every scene she appears in. Nigel Cole, the creator of the wonderful "Calendar Girls" does an amazing job behind the camera - his direction is extremely focused and spot-on, and complimented nicely by Parker's flawless editing and David Arnold's joyous music score. "Dagenham" also succeeds visually. The retro production design is as authentic as it gets, and it represents the 60's era quite perfectly. John de Borman uses some warm color filters to achieve this slightly fuzzy, yet beautiful type of cinematography, and the yellow tint lighting gives an appropriately dated look to the film, which is very also appealing. Not to mention the chic costumes and the fancy hairstyles, that also add to the beauty of the movie.

Overall summary: Thoroughly inspiring, gorgeously-photographed, brilliantly-acted, and delightfully enjoyable and easy to watch, Nigel Cole's "Made In Dagenham" is truly a hidden cinematic gem, waiting to be discovered by all movie connoisseurs out there.

[8.25/10] Rango (2011)

Rango (2011)

Brief review: From the creator of the super-spooky "The Ring", and the wildly popular "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise, here comes "Rango" - the most creative, witty and oddly enjoyable animated flick, released in the past couple of years. While "Rango" can't boast with great originality story-wise, its execution is so flawless and breathtakingly-brilliant, its plot weaknesses can be forgiven. Though it drags here and there and is a bit too moody in places, the story is well-paced, balancing action, narrative and dialogue quite nicely. The witty and cleverly-written script gives depth to the characters and their quirky, colorful personalities, and makes the audience feel connected to them. Furthermore, "Rango" is a true visual splendor! Gore Verbinski certainly has an eye for detail, and it shows. The animation is so masterfully-crafted and extraordinarily-detailed, you won't believe your eyes. Although the director avoids bright and vivid colors, and uses more muted color palette, the CGI sets are still eye-catching and quite beautiful, and each of the characters is stunningly-designed, if not exactly sweet or very charming. The action scene in the second half is definitely the highlight of the movie, along with Johnny Depp and Isla Fisher's spectacular voice acting.

Overall summary: Charmingly-bizarre, smartly-written and beautifully-crafted, "Rango" is undoubtedly one of the most visually-unique animated features ever created, and certainly the quirkiest one, and it will appeal to anyone with an open mind and great imagination.

Numerous QuickRatings PART 1: Pre-2009 Movies

To Live (1994)

QuickRating: With its splendidly-executed and remarkably-realistic portrayal of one family's struggle during China's pre-revolutionary era, Zhang Yimou proves yet again that he's capable of turning a seemingly simplistic story into something so deeply-moving, heart-wrenching and emotionally-powerful, it may touch your heart and soul forever.

My Rating: 9.00/10

In My Skin (2002)

QuickRating: Although it deals with the disturbing subject matter of self-mutilation, "In My Skin" is neither as shocking nor as effective as it thinks it is, and its bleak, grinding atmosphere and obnoxious characters, make it an unpleasant and rather bizarre experience, that never fully manages to get under your skin, despite its graphicness.

My Rating: 4.50/10

Dawn of the Dead (2004)

[Director's Cut]

QuickRating: Thanks to its excitingly action-packed plot, compelling characters, eye-candy cinematography, top-notch special and practical effects, and stylized goriness, visionary director Snyder's debut feature, "Dawn of the Dead", ranks as one of one of the most most polished and accomplished horror remakes in cinematic history.

My Rating: 8.25/10


The Wrestler (2008)

QuickRating: Exceptionally well acted, yet rather unimpressive compared to Aronofsky's previous efforts, "The Wrestler" is a compelling if slightly overrated character-driven drama, that surely marks Mickey Rourke's comeback as a serious actor, and showcases director's talent, but the film itself is as flawed and inconsistent as its main character.

My Rating: 7.00/10

[8.25/10] Never Let Me Go (2010)

Never Let Me Go (2010)

Brief review: "One Hour Photo" director, Mark Romanek, brings this beautifully-shot adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro' novel of the same name, that grabs the viewer with its heartbreakingly-sad, yet touching story, engaging characters and breathtaking visuals. "Never Let Me Go" is a quietly-terrifying story of fate, hope and true love, and although dystopian, it feels somewhat believable and thoroughly realistic. "Never Let Me Go" is rather slow-moving, yet elegant and smoothly-paced, and it features strong performances by Carey Mulligan and Keira Knightley as the two key characters, Ruth and Kathy, a solid supporting performance by Charlotte Rampling, and wonderful cameo by the incredibly-talented Sally Hawkins. "Never Let Me Go" also impresses with its absolutely stunning cinematography with muted, yet saturated color palette, gorgeous scenery of the English countryside, and the masterful direction of Mark Romanek's, who provides countless brilliant shots, slick camera angles, and incredibly well-staged scenes. All this accompanied by Rachel Portman's mesmerizing music score, that perfectly fits the haunting and thoroughly disturbing subject matter of the film.

Overall summary: As profoundly-beautiful as it's shockingly disturbing, "Never Let Me Go" ranks as one of the most moving, emotionally resonant and gorgeously-photographed films of 2010.

[8.25/10] Despicable Me (2010)

Despicable Me (2010)

In a happy suburban neighborhood surrounded by white picket fences with flowering rose bushes, sits a black house with a dead lawn. Unbeknownst to the neighbors, hidden beneath this home is a vast secret hideout. Surrounded by a small army of minions, we discover Gru, planning the biggest heist in the history of the world. He is going to steal the moon. Gru delights in all things wicked. Armed with his arsenal of shrink rays, freeze rays, and battle-ready vehicles for land and air, he vanquishes all who stand in his way. Until the day he encounters the immense will of three little orphaned girls who look at him and see something that no one else has ever seen: a potential Dad. The world’s greatest villain has just met his greatest challenge: three little girls named Margo, Edith and Agnes. With Dreamworks' "How to Train Your Dragon", Pixar's "Toy Story 3" and Disney's "Tangled", 2010 has proven itself an exceptionally strong year for animation, and "Despicable Me" is no exception. Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud's first full-length animated feature is yet another jewel in the crown of animated filmmaking. "Despicable Me" is an adorable, hilarious, truly imaginative and beautifully-animated feature, that never fails to entertain the audience with its gripping story and witty homorous script, and to blow their minds with its dazzling CGI visuals. In terms of storytelling, this flick doesn't break any new grounds, but it's hugely entertaining nontheless, as it's filled with hilarious situations, amusing characters and plenty of action and clever jokes that work very well. "Despicable Me" is never boring or inert, as it moves briskly from one great scene to another at a very dynamic pace. The characters are "Despicable Me"'s main strength. Steve Carell's Gru is a terrific a villain - he seems tough and vicious on the outside, but he's soft as a cotton on the inside and quite emotional, without being too sappy. The three little girls - Margo, Edith, Agnes are smart, sweet and delightfully engaging, with Agnes in particular being my absolute favorite. Vector is wicked, yet somewhat sympathetic and geniously clever. Miss Hattie's not a very likable character, but she's hilarious to watch nonetheless. Animation-wise, "Despicable Me" is a true visual treat. The animation is richly textured, very detailed, and wonderfully-inventive. The CGI backgrounds are beautifully-crafted, and the graphics are vivid, colorful and eye catching. All the character are also very well-drawn, especially the endlessly adorable yellow minions, who are so sweet and likable, they bring an absolute joy everytime they appear on screen. Unfortunately, I didn't get the chance to see it in 3D, but the film looks stunning enough in 2D as well. The voice acting from everyone involved is just excellent. Russell Brand in particular does an incredible job in breathing life into his character, Dr. Nefario. Steve Carell and Elsie Fisher also shine as Gru and Agnes. Although it doesn't shine with an enormous originality, with its consistently funny and gripping story, quirky yet multi-layered characters, and breathtakingly colorful animation, "Despicable Me" is an absolute winner!

• My Rating: 8.25/10
• Rotten Tomatoes: 82% (6.8/10)
• IMDb: 7.6/10