Trey's Top 5 Favorite Films Of All-Time

Since today is my Birthday I decided to give my top 5 favorite movies. The reason I chose top 5 is because the bottom 5 of my top 10 is always in motion. With a list as small as 5 I feel I can get a consistent list that will stay that way for a long time. Here we go!

 

1. The Dark Knight

 

My absolutely favorite movie from one of the best directors of this generation. I have watched this film at least 1000 times and it wasn't till recently I saw this film on the big screen. Yes, I made the huge mistake of missing this movie on initial release and it still is a sore subject for me to this day. What do I love about this film? Besides the generic answer of everything, I love the way it showed a different side of comic book films. I loved Iron Man which came out the same year but this was on a different level. It is mature and realistic, while also being thought provoking and thrilling an absolute masterpiece in any sense of the word. Its technically flawless with absolute gorgeous cinematography and a intense Hans Zimmer score that accompanies the fantastic acting and set pieces. It may not be the most action packed but it reminded me of Heat, a film Nolan used as his inspiration. The big kicker is the incredible performance By Heath Ledger as the Joker, you won't find many performances as good as that one.

 

 

2. Inglorious Bastards

I enjoy myself a Quentin Tarantino film a much as the next guy, but never has one struck me as much as Inglorious Bastards. I was never a fan of the over the top Kill Bill violence and I felt Tarantino couldn't beat his previous films like Reservoir Dogs and Pulp Fiction. I was wrong, severely and utterly wrong. This movie bolsters extremely entertaining performances by Christoph Waltz and Brad Pitt, that at times are more comical than the film itself. It's essentially 2 stories that begin to intertwine near the end for one big finale. My favorite part? the quick witted and clever dialogue written by the master of screenplays Tarantino. Along with the delivery by Christoph Waltz and Brad Pitt. It's really a blast, and now I am unsure if Tarantino has any cards left to play.
 

 

3.Shawshank Redemption

This is a film that I consider the best film of all time. You may be wondering why its sitting at number 3 then? The reason it because it doesn't have the rewatch value and enjoyment factor that the other 2 films ahead of it have.  It is just a perfectly made film that in my opinion holds no flaws. Just because I believe it's the best film ever made it doesn't mean that it has to  be my favorite. I have seen this film around 5-10 times each time marveling at its craftsmanship. The story is what really makes this film perfect, and that ending is chalked full of satisfaction. I guess Stephan King is to thank for this masterpiece? Or the director for adapting it? Either way its a marvelous film that most everyone I have met loved.

4. L.A Confidential

I just recently came across this film after a friend recommendation. I knew nothing about this film because it was released before I really started investing myself in movies. I saw the cover and nodded my head with satisfaction at 3 main actors Kevin Spacey, Guy Pearce and Russell Crowe. Then I sat down and had one of the best 2 hours I have ever had with a movie. The movie is so well written and the overlying theme of justice and how the 3 perceive it is incredible to watch. Then to see each character evolve towards the opposite perception of justice makes every minute of this film worth it. Add in a little romance, a couple shootouts and one well delivered twist and you got yourself a film Noir masterpiece.

5. Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World

This may be the most debatable one in my top 5 because I know many people who didn't like this film. I will straight up tell them they are crazy because this film is AWESOME with all capital letters. Edgar Wright is an incredible writer and director, and made the funniest movie I have ever seen. I have seen it upwards to 100 times and continue to laugh at every scene every time I watch it. That is not something I can say about many comedies, if any others at all. Add in some flashy special affects that make it feel like a video game and you got a stylistic comedy unlike any film in existence. Its completely innovative and original take on its graphic novel source material. If you haven't seen this film GO WATCH IT!


What do you guys think? Do you hate my list or love it? Let me know in the comments below!

Box Office Recap: April 28th 2013

This week in the Box Office was a minuscule one, despite a fantastic outing overseas for Iron Man 3. By fantastic I mean Iron Man 3 has already made 192 million which eclipse the overseas numbers by The Avengers. With it being the obvious number one next week we take a look at the first and last time Pain and Gain will reign supreme in the Box Office.

1. Pain and Gain 20 million

Though not a huge number by Michael Bay standards, Pain and Gain is not your average Michael Bay film. When making a rated R film, the box office numbers are usually much less due to the restrictions on ticket sales. Luckily its low budget (25 million) makes Pain and Gain a sure fire success. Even though it won't be touching the cash that his Transformers films had. Despite it's relatively poor reviews Pain and Gain has done enough in the box office to warrant being made. (Read our review here: Pain and Gain Review)

2. Oblivion 17 million

The Tom Cruise sci-fi film has now raked in 64 million domestic and 198 million world wide. Oblivion will have a hard time matching Joseph Kosinski's other film Tron: Legacy which grossed 400 million world wide. Oblivion is reported to have a 120 million dollar budget, which makes its gross acceptable at least, despite it's look warm reviews. (Read ours here: Oblivion Review)

3. 42 10 million

The Jackie Robinson biopic 42 pulls in another 10 million, leaving its domestic total around 69 million. Which doesn't sound a lot but is the highest grossing April film. It will probably be passed by Oblivion in the long run unless Iron Man 3 crushes Oblivion's intake next week and beyond.

4. The Big Wedding 7 million

An atrocious opening weekend for a film with such high profile stars. Not Robin Williams or Robert DeNiro could muster up enough audience to make this film relevant. It doesn't help that it has overwhelmingly bad reviews and its genre isn't big sellers either. It may have a chance to pass its 35 million budget but it won't be enough to call it a success.

5. The Croods 6 million

This animated film is hanging in there adding another 6 million dollars, bringing its total to 168 million dollars domestically. It should cross the 500 million dollar world wide mark by the end of the upcoming week. Animated movies are always big sellers and this first one of the year has really held strong. It only solidifies the fact that Monsters University and Despicable Me 2 will make serious bank.

6-10

The bottom 5 films consist of G.I Joe 2, Scary Movie 5, Olympus Has Fallen, Place Beyond the Pines and Jurassic Park 3D. None of which made enough money to crack the top 5.

Movie Of The Week: April 21-27

With the release of the Michael Bay film Pain and Gain staring Mark Wahlberg, we highlight the best leading performance given by this inconsistent actor. The reason we chose his film instead of a Michael Bay film is because I couldn't think of a film of his that is worth highlighting. Which is why I chose to highlight the David O. Russell boxing film The Fighter (2010). Also a True Story like Pain and Gain, it follows the career or Micky Ward a boxer whose outside life is more intriguing than his boxing career. Though his career is rather inspirational his family/management team that consist of his crazy mother and sisters, his cocaine addicted brother and his new girlfriend bring this sports film to a new level.

Mark Wahlberg gives one of his best performances of all time in this film as Micky. The way he interacts with his family as a child living under the shadow of his brother older Dicky (Christian Bale) is incredible to watch. It helps that Wahlberg was working with a fantastic director and 2 people who won Oscars in their selective roles. Though Bale overshadows Wahlberg at many times, the movie isn't the same without Wahlberg's performance. He balances the crazy people as the voice of reason, while struggling to find his place in a family that doesn't exactly look out for him. I believe Wahlberg deserved an Oscar nod in this role, I firmly believe that. It was a very tough year with other great performances being nominated, but I feel he was superior to Jesse Eisenberg in The Social Network at least. The Fighter is a masterpiece and one of my favorite films of all time. If you haven't seen this film I urge you to heck it out.


This film stars Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams and Melissa Leo.

What do you guys think of The Fighter? I believe its better than Rocky what do you think?
Let me know in the comments below!

Movie Review: Pain and Gain

Overall

Trey: 3.5 out of 5

Having negative feelings regarding Michael Bay before watching this film may make you enjoy it less than you should. Though far from a perfect film, the 3 lead actors led me on a funny and entertaining journey that is worth more than the price of admission. Bay may have also added more depth to characters that could easily have come off as one dimensional without any knowledge of doing so. Its a funny, wacky and down right entertaining film unlike anything Michael Bay has ever done.

Suzanne: 4 out of 5

Alright ladies, (and gentlemen), this is a movie that both girls and guys can enjoy. The three main characters are extremely fun to watch in this movie. With it being a true story I was glad that they still managed to add some comedy to the extreme things that the three main guys pull off. I think this is probably one of Michael Bay's best movies.

Quick Synopsis
The film revolves around 3 body builders/trainers with the aspiration of obtaining their versions of the American dream. Daniel Lugo (Mark Whalberg) lives and breathes for fitness but everyday he begins to realize his situation isn't as great as he once believed it was. With the help from his friends Adrian (Anthony Mackie) and Paul (Dwayne Johnson) they devise a plan to steal all assets of Victor Kershaw's (Tony Shaloub) life. Giving each other the resources to have anything they wish in life and more.

Visuals

Trey: There was maybe one scene that had clever and interesting cinematography, but the rest was pretty average. I wasn't expecting anything flashy or unique because it's not like it was an action film or had immense amounts of CGI. There was a couple bits of unnecessary slow motion that made me slouch in my seat but it was never a huge factor in the overall experience of the film.

Suzanne: I thought this movie was pretty visually appealing. It used slow motion fairly well although too much. They should have only used it some select scenes and that is it. I also thought they did a good job with the overall look of the movie it all flowed together really well there wasn't any scene that stuck out like it didn't fit in the film.

Audio and Score

Trey: Michael Bay has been known to make many scenes feel like music videos, which at times this film did. Although the addition of Gangsta's Paradise by Coolio was a very appealing and fun song to come across in this film. It got Suzanne and I bouncing a bit in our seats and it was one of my favorite scenes in the movie. Take out some music here and there and it may be a better film but i can withstand a music video feeling every now and then.

Suzanne: The visuals and audio in this movie were pretty impressive although I have to agree with Trey that some of the scenes felt a little bit like music videos. I think the music selections really worked well with the movie overall though they were good choices. And yes, I was bouncing in my seat to the music...I love to dance haha.

Acting 

Trey: The acting was the highlight of this film for me, in particular with the 3 main characters. I have always been high on Mark Wahlberg in comedic roles and have gained a increasing respect for Anthony Mackie. Neither of these 2 men let me down at all but the big surprise for me was Dwayne Johnson. I know he can be an action star but his character was really well written and was unlike anything he has played. He was like giant teddy bear who became corrupt by the American dream and continued to evolve and break throughout the film. He really was my favorite part of the film which I didn't expect coming in. Also a great job by Tony Shaloub aka Monk and Ed Harris in their roles. The only real problem for me was Bar Paly who played a stripper that was extremely poorly written and idiotic. She just didn't have enough to do, and was not given enough depth.

Suzanne: The acting in this movie was spectacular all three of the main characters in this movie were great. They all portrayed buff body builders perfectly and made it really believable. Mark Wahlberg was very comedic in his role but I also really wanted to smack him sometimes. I have to say after this movie I don't think I will be able to look at Mark Wahlberg the same because of this character he portrayed. I think Anthony Mackie surprised me the most because the only thing I remember seeing him in is Real Steel and Gangster Squad. He was completely different in this movie than he was in those other two and I thought that was great I love when actors can completely switch personalities. Speaking of that we come to The Rock, he was so different in this movie than usual and it was really refreshing. He was quite the softy and that was a side I enjoyed seeing. The last character I want to mention is Tonly Shaloub, who also plays Mr. Monk in the old school TV show Monk. I thought his character was an asshole but also quite funny with what he was given. All I have to say is Bravo to the cast!

Story

Trey: The story though real was extremely bizarre, which made the film very intriguing. The things that these 3 men do made me shake my head wondering how anyone could be so stupid. I understand not everyone is smart but these guys crossed many lines. I do not know how much is fabricated but the key moments (which I assume are true) were shocking enough to keep the film moving. Even when things slowed down or the pacing felt off the things that happened on screen kept me watching. Though it's difficult to compliment a writer on a true story, but he did well at adapting it. I thought the story was a breathe of fresh air because it was unlike many that I have seen.

Suzanne: I am just beyond amazed that this is a true story, it blows my mind. I'm not sure if I can really judge the story of this movie mainly for the reason that it is a true story. I don't remember hearing anything about these guys and what they did. I must say though that they are not very bright I don't know what is true and what was just put in for show but what a crazy story it was, that is all I have to say.

Iron Man 3 Looking And Tracking Well

 

As of now Iron Man 3 is tracking monumental numbers, in particular 160mil dollars debut. This would exceed any previous solo Marvel film by far and put it right in line with last years The Dark Knight Rises. Along with tracking extremely well reviews from out overseas critics have begin to swarm the Internet with purpose. That purpose to show how well they enjoyed this superhero juggernaut. Reviews sit at a impressive 95% which is 40 fresh and 2 rotten.

 

That being said we shouldn't jump the gun to early, there is still around 150 more reviews to come. Maintaining such a high number isn't the easiest thing to do, I assume that it will go down but how much? Will it eclipse its predecessor Iron Man 2? I am positive it will, but I doubt it will stay above the 93% that Iron Man 1 held. Look at last years superhero movie The Amazing Spiderman, it started out even better with 39 fresh and 0 rotten. It ended up with a 73% which is far less than I was expecting after the raving first reviews. Rotten tomato always does this, If the movie is a big movie it will start out with raving reviews and then fall off over time. If the film is going to get terrible reviews they will hold off until last minute to post them. Iron man 3 will be a good film, how good is an opinionated question that will vary per person.

Are you looking forward to Iron Man 3? Let us know in the comments below!

Oscar Upsets/Mistakes: The Dark Knight A No Show For Best Picture (2008)

Christopher Nolan's film The Dark Knight is said to have changed the Best Picture category with its lack of a nomination, increasing the amount of films that can be nominated for Best Picture. Arguably one of the most influence films of this decade this crime thriller took audiences by storm and has continued to wow critics. Of course like any great film there is a select number of "haters" that will bash Nolan and this film at any chance, but it has nothing to prove to them. It holds a 94% on rotten tomatoes, it holds the 7th place on IMDB's top 250 and has been included in almost every top film list including Empires top 500 films of all time (In the top 15). The movie is a monument of epic scale with thought provoking and mature themes. Its not like any superhero film that has ever been made, and its changed the way people perceives films of that genre. If down the line a superhero film wins Best Picture they better thank The Dark Knight and Christopher Nolan, it would be the only reason they were taken seriously.

Looking at the competition

The winner of the big prize was the Danny Boyle film Slumdog Millionaire, which is no doubt a great film. One that I was high on when I saw but have never revisited since, because unfortunately it doesn't draw my attention anymore. Also nominated you have the David Fincher film The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button, which is in my opinion a solid Fincher film that doesn't match up to the likes of Se7en or Fight Club. Its rather slow and I continued to fade out throughout its 165 minute run time. The other 3 films that were nominated I have never seen those being Milk, Frost/Nixon and The Reader. Looking at the reviews for each film the big one that sticks out is The Reader which holds a 61% on rotten tomatoes, a shocking number for a Best Picture nominee. The others range between 92-94% none of which exceeded the reviews that The Dark Knight received. The Reader did however boast an Oscar winning performance by Kate Winslet and Milk actor Sean Penn also received an award for his performance. To match that Heath Ledgers infamous and in some ways life threatening turn as The Joker also won him an award. You can say his death was the reason for his award but I firmly believe you would be wrong. It is one of the most commanding, enticing and impressive performances I have ever seen in a movie and it still shocks me today. The Dark Knight also boast a larger domestic and world wide gross than all 4 of the Best Picture nominees combined. Which may make the film to mainstream for the Academy to reward. (as ridiculous as that sounds)

Final Thoughts

This is one of the rare cases where a film that wasn't nominated holds up over time far better than any of the films that year. The Dark Knight not being at least nominated for Best Picture is wrong and the change by the Academy afterwards shows they know they screwed up. They have yet to make up for it by giving Christopher Nolan an award he deserves, it could also be a considered a mistake he wasn't nominated for Best Director for The Dark Knight or Inception. Either way its early in his career and an award will more than likely come at some point. In my opinion this film deserved to win Best Picture for kick starting a genre that was unappreciated and changing the way people perceive it. It is the only film in that group that is still relevant and will continue to hold up because its affect on the film community. Big budget film that is smart and boast a strong screenplay? Check.

Directors To Watch: Jeff Nichols

 

Jeff Nichols is one of the many directors who has already placed a lasting impression on the Indie film community. I met him at last years Ebertfest when I experience one of the best films of 2011 Take Shelter. Like Ponsoldt, Jeff Nichols has only 3 films to show off his talents, those being Shotgun Stories, Take Shelter, and Mud. Mud like many may know headlined Sundance this year and begins in theatrical run this weekend. You may think I am just highlighting directors I have met but Jeff Nichols really is something special. Take Shelter may be the only film I have seen but its enough to realize what a great filmmaker he is. His stories though light on budget bring big film ambitions and themes. While highlighting character interaction and development the actors that portray these well written characters only bring out the fantastic writing that Nichols does.

My only experience with Jeff Nichols is Take Shelter the 2011 thriller. Its a simple film, based around an all American man who struggles with his sanity. It is in my opinion an American classic that highlights the struggles of an American family with  more problems than their paychecks can handle. In the end its a film about marriage and being on the same page as your spouse. Something that is rather sweet, especially for a film that is far from pleasant. Its at times horrific, in others emotional while being carried by two fantastic performances in the form of Jessica Chastain and the should of been Oscar nominee Michael Shannon. If you haven't seen this film do yourself a favor and pick it up as soon as possible. Its a slow burning drama that should affect you in more ways than you could ever imagine.


This weekend Nichols newest film Mud is released. As of now it holds a 91% on rottentomatoes.com, which only peaks my interest. Though Matthew McConaughey has never been a selling point for me, he seems to be the key component of this Stand By Me esc film. I have done my best not learning everything I can about Mud, because I hope to be surprised come this weekend. If it's anything like Nichols previous work I am sure I will be extremely happy. Not to mention a slow burning drama will help balance out the immense amount of comedy I will get next week with Iron Man 3.

Mud is released on April 26th.

Have you guys seen Take Shelter? Or are you looking forward to Mud? Let us know in the comments below!

Thor 2 Trailer!

The first trailer for Thor 2: The Dark World has just been released by marvel studios and there is a lot to talk about. The trailers main highlight is the continued relationship between Jane Foster and the Asgardian Thor. The most impressive part on the other hand is the direction being shown by Alan Taylor, whose known for his work on Game of Thrones. It definitely feels like Game of Thrones without an abundance of sex scenes. The problem is the trailer seems very uneven, based on the way it was cut and the material that was chosen to be shown. They need to pick a definitive angle either base this trailer on the Jane and Thor relationship, or highlight the action. This trailer is a bit of a mess jumping around from different plot points and ending with the return of a familiar face. Watch the video below!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3bFZJ-3zNFg&feature=player_detailpage


SPOILERS FOR PEOPLE THAT DIDNT WATCH THE TRAILER!

My biggest complaint is once again the addition of Loki. I love Tom Hiddlesston he is a fantastic Loki, unfortunately they haven't made Loki a good enough villain. He spent the majority of the Avengers film on the back while achieving nothing of importance. Though Thor ask to trust him I don't understand why. He attacked a big U.S city and has twice manipulated Thor, stop trusting someone who isn't trustworthy. Most likely by the end of this film Loki will change sides and take his evil roots which will only solidify my point. Why ask for Loki's helps when you have Tony Stark as an ally? Yeah, its a situation that marvel will never be able to handle because they can't add everyone in each film.

Thor: The Dark World releases will be released November 8th, 2013.

Do you guys want to see Thor 2? Are you loving the way Marvel is handling their products? Lets us know in the comments below!

Iron Man 3 4D Screenings In Japan

The title says it all, Iron Man 3 will be tacking advantage of 4D technology in Japanese Theaters. This isn't your classic scratch-and-sniff card from that one Spy Kids movie, this is the real deal. This 4D technology includes tilting seats, strobe lights, bubbles, wind machines, fog and of course odors. The first thing I thought when reading this was bubbles? how many movies have scenes worthy of bubbles? I guess the underwater scene will be that much more bad-ass when bubbles come spitting out of your seat. If when little kids shot it in my face didn't annoy me enough they are attempting to add it into my movie seats? Also what odors could they possibly use to enhance my movie going experience? Let me list a few odors id be interested in.

1. Pepper Potts - she is a classy chick I am sure she wears good smelling perfume.

2. Inside the Iron Man suit - There is no possibly way that doesn't smell awful. I bet its so pungent that as a guy I would be tempted to smell, and then smell again for good measures.

3.  Ben Kingsley - Old man smell, though not good it would definitely add to his appearance on screen. It would be hard to forget and would be a great way to tease him approaching out of nowhere. Image this.
Your friend: Dude what is that smell? did you fart?
Yourself: Dude.... here comes Ben Kingsley. gross.

4. Tony Starks cologne - that sleazy cologne smell would only make you want to hate Tony even more. Unfortunately its impossible to hate someone so charismatic.

5. Whoever dies - nothing would turn my stomach more than a rancid dead body smell during a tragic death scene. It will make me remember that scene vividly from the moment its shown till the epic sprint to the bathroom.

If you think this new age technology is coming cheap you are mistaken, it will cost an extra $10 to $13 dollars more per ticket. Japanese audiences will be paying a whopping $25.50 per ticket to get blinded by strobe lights, have wind shot in their face and yes smell some odd odors. With D-box recently immerging in the United States we can only wonder when 4D technology will emerge.


What do you guys think, is this something you would be interested in? What smells would you like to see in a movie? Let us know In the comments below!

Iron Man 3 Controversy?

Though and embargo hasn't been lifted on the reviews for Iron man 3, some people just don't follow the rules. Reviews have stated that the big twist in the movie is causing an uproar within loyal fans of the character. I will not be revealing the twist because it would be unfair to push that out, but could this ending hurt the film? Honestly probably not, the reviews have been pretty positive despite the twist and Iron Man is still a bankable franchise. What could the twist be? Is Tony going to die and Pepper Potts becomes the new Ironman? That sounds even more stupid on paper than in my head. Either way the twist is indeed in the film and it should be interesting to see how fans and others react to it.


In other news both Regal and AMC theaters are in the middle of a dispute with Disney. I guess money isn't at the right level for one of the sides and both theaters have stopped selling tickets for their planned shows. This isn't the first time something like this has happened, there have been many money despite with various companies. Not to worry, Regal and AMC are not stupid enough to miss out on a chance to show Iron Man 3. They will figure it out one way or another.


Iron Man 3 hits theaters May 3rd!

Directors To Watch: James Ponsoldt

Though James Ponsoldt is no household name and many of you have probably never experienced any of his 3 films (Off The Black, Smashed, The Spectacular Now), the two I have seen have found ways to standout in my mind. When at Ebertfest yesterday I had the opportunity to experience his newest film The Spectacular Now (which was reviewed by Suzanne), followed by an interview/Q&A that helped me understand what James Ponsoldt is all about. From the interview he stressed honesty and allowing open suggestions from his lead actors who have ranged from up and comers Shailene Woodley and Miles Teller, to veterans such as Nick Nolte and Mary Elizabeth Winstead. Having such a open relationship with his actors allows for dialogue changes and a much more comfortable work environment.

My first experience with James Ponsoldt came with last years film Smashed staring Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World) and Aaron Paul (Breaking Bad). A film that revolves around a couple whose relationship seems to run on Alcohol, with both Kate (Winstead) and Charlie (Paul) unable to function without a drink. With a film that is so small, and so basic Ponsoldt never misses an opportunity to bring emotion and surprises to the table. The leads are fantastic and portray one of the most real couples I have ever seen on screen. The star of this show however is Ponsoldt whose writing (along with Susan Burke) and craftsmanship take this 1 hour and 23 minute film to new heights.

The Spectacular Now which holds an August 2nd limited release date, started out as a very conventional cliché romantic coming of age story. I will not lie for the first half of the film I was poorly struck by how conventional the story was. Miles Teller played a very unlikeable popular kid who had the same attitude and problems that every 18 year old boy in movie history had. While Shailene Woodley played a convincing sheltered girl who didn't have more than one friend. Many of you are probably reading this and planning the story out in your head like I did for the beginning of the film. Once again though James Ponsoldt kicked it into a second gear and released a more deep, shocking and emotional film than I was expecting. By the end of the film I liked Miles Teller and felt broken as he did throughout the film, and I felt bad for Woodley whose mistakes pushed her past the point adolescence. The last hour of this film sold me, and once again proved that James Ponsoldt deservers our attention.

When overhearing the questions being asked to James Ponsoldt, he revealed that his next film is a sci-fi book adaptation. He has also signed on for 2 films backed By The Weinstein Company one being a musical, the other being the next book by Silver Linings Playbook author Matthew Quick. Though I didn't catch the name of the sci-fi film it has peaked my interest, because while both Smashed and The Spectacular Now are both great films, they are very similar. I am interest to see what else Ponsoldt can bring to the table, while Suzanne and I wait eagerly for his next film.

I suggestion everyone check out Smashed which is on DVD NOW! Got a director you think deserves recognition? Let us know in the comments below!

The Spectacular Now

My rating: 4 out of 5 stars

First here's a little synopsis of the movie for those of you who don't know what it is. This is an honest movie about two 18 year old teenagers who fall in love. But this isn't your typical cheesy teen love story. This film shows what appear to be two real kids, not actors portraying what we think love should be but how it really is. Sutter (Miles Teller) lives with his mom who wont tell him anything about his dad and wont even let him call him. Sutter is your typical popular kid who parties and drinks but is very tormented by his home life. Then there is Amy (Shailene Woodley) your quiet teenager who doesn't really have a lot of friends. Amy also lives with just her mom but it is because her father has passed away. This movie simply follows these two teens as they discover each other and what's really important in their lives. I'm going to keep this synopsis short because I don't want to give anything away.

Now, I gave this movie a 4 out of 5 because it truly was spectacular! The characters were so relatable and real on the screen that it almost made you forget you were just watching a movie. Visually there wasn't a whole lot to this movie. The director said he filmed it in his home town to keep things simple. I think it was a great choice to keep it simple because it makes it feel very real like something you experienced from high school yourself. What I loved most about this movie, though, was how connected I felt to the two main characters, Sutter and Amy. They both seemed to be so happy to be together and I believed it. When actors can make you truly believe them then you know there is something special about the movie. I've heard a lot of people are comparing The Spectacular Now with The Perks of being a Wallflower. I'm not sure you really can compare these films. They both have such different stories and different characters that it doesn't even seem fair to compare the two. Both are amazing films in their own ways.

Finally, I have some pictures to share with you guys from Eberfest where I saw this amazing film. I was lucky enough to meet Shailene Woodley and I just have to say she is one of the sweetest, most humble people I have ever met. She was in an ABC Family series called The Secret Life of the American Teenager and made her big debut in The Descendant's starring opposite George Clooney. Right now she is filming in Chicago for a book turned to a movie called Divergent. She will be playing the main character Tris. I also had the pleasure of meeting the director James Ponsoldt who was equally as humble and awesome. He is best known for his film Smashed which came out last year.

Oscar Upsets/Mistakes: Shakespeare defeats Private Ryan (1999)

In some ways the 71st Academy Awards wasn't much of a competition. Going into Oscar Sunday Stephan Spielberg's war epic Saving Private Ryan was the clear winner to take home Best Picture. It is regarded today as one of the biggest upsets in Oscar history, but is it really that much of an surprise that a witty romantic comedy set in the 1590's could topple this war giant? Lets break it down.

Saving Private Ryan

What this film had going for it from the start is the directing mastermind Stephan Spielberg. Widely know as one of the greatest directors to ever live, Speilberg alone gives it more weight within the Academy. Not to mention it stars one of Hollywood's most respected leading men in Tom Hanks. Within the film you have a truly epic search and rescue story interlaced with truly gut wrenching and masterful battle scenes. In particular the storming the beach scene near the beginning of the film. It is in my opinion one of the greatest scenes ever filmed and enough to deserve a Best Picture nod. The result of such a wonderful film was 5 awards including Cinematography and Director. Though from the beginning of the night you could feel an upset brewing.

Shakespeare In Love

Though everyone could feel it coming it was still as unexpected as any upset in Oscar history. A film directed by the relatively unknown John Madden that was more or less a romantic comedy proved everyone wrong. At the beginning of the show Judi Dench took home best supporting actress for her 8 minute turn as Queen Elizabeth I, which is ridiculous to say the least. Then an hour later Gweneth Paltrow upset Kate Blanchet (who also played Queen Elizabeth I in Elizabeth) for Best Actress, which only padded the remarkable upset. After Spielberg took home Best Director the jitters calmed and everything seemed to be back to normal. Until 10 minutes later Madden's romantic comedy backed by Harvey Weinstein took home the prestigious prize of Best Picture. Giving the film its 7th Oscar of the night.


Comparing the two.

Both films received critical praise with a 93% on Rotten Tomatoes but the difference resides with how audiences reacted to it. Shakespeare In Love received a 73% by audiences where Saving Private Ryan received a 92%. Of course the genre itself can be a result of this because many men won't even attempt to like a romantic comedy. Which could be the cause of an 100 million dollar less gross than Saving Private Ryan. Based on multiple review sites there is really no advantage either way by critics.  Shakespeare in Love however had the advantage of 2 acting Oscars, while Saving Private Ryan was held to technical awards. Which no doubt helped tipped the scale towards Shakespeare.

Final Thought

Though I believe Saving Private Ryan is a superior film I enjoyed Shakespeare In Love far more than I expected. The witty dialogue and tremendous costume and production design is hard for any movie fan to ignore. When looking at the facts I can't call it that big of an upset because it was clear critics felt the same about the movies. Though it is an upset you can never count out a movie backed by Harvey Weinstein. He is a master at manipulation and always gives his films a chance to succeed. The Academy doesn't take fan selections into account, if it did then this would have ended differently along with many other Academy Awards. Call it what you want but both of these films are good enough to take home the award.

What do you guys think? Is it the biggest upset you have ever seen? What other Oscar upsets would you like to see me cover next? Comment and tell me below!