Wealthy, but painfully shy woman is romanced by charming young man whose motives are questioned by her father. Extraordinary adaption of Henry James’ novella Washington Square is cinematic perfection. Olivia de Havilland is electrifying in her character’s metamorphosis and Ralph Richardson has a commanding presence as her domineering father. Spectacular production values complement this compelling drama that remains one of the best films of the 40s.
Archive for September, 2009
The Heiress
Posted in Drama, Romance with tags 1949 on September 28, 2009 by Mark HobinSin Nombre
Posted in Adventure, Crime, Drama, Thriller with tags 2009 on September 26, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Tense, unrelentingly grim drama of two people whose paths cross violently atop a moving train: a Honduran girl attempting to emigrate to the US with her family, and a Mexican gang member attempting to rob them. Film’s ability to seamlessly combine a story about immigration with gang warfare is fascinating. The action feels completely authentic in its gritty portrayal. Impressive feature debut for 31-year-old Californian, Cary Joji Fukunaga.
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs
Posted in Animation, Family with tags 2009 on September 24, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Misfit scientist tries to solve his island’s food problem by inventing a device that turns water into food. Silly, harmless family entertainment provides a few chuckles, but the story is rather jejune. Children under 12 will appreciate the colorful computer-animated 3D and ridiculousness of the story. At least the third feature from fledgling Sony Pictures Animation is an improvement over Open Seasonand Surf’s Up. Mr. T is hilarious as the voice of Officer Earl Devereaux, the town’s overactive athletic cop devoted to his son.
9
Posted in Adventure, Animation, Drama, Fantasy, Science Fiction with tags 2009 on September 22, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Animated post-apocalyptic fantasy about a rag doll named “9” who leads a courageous mission to save the earth from evil machines. Visually stylish film is undone by its simplistic narrative. The action of the film just isn’t as compelling as the stunning images. Director Shane Acker’s expansion of his original 11minute animated short, just doesn’t hold enough story to warrant a feature length film. Kudos to the marketing department, however, for having the insight to release the film on 9/9/09.
The Informant!
Posted in Comedy, Crime, Drama, Thriller with tags 2009 on September 18, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Bizarre account about rising corporate star, Mark Whitacre, who turns whistleblower against his employer, agribusiness giant ADM, for price fixing. Jazzy 60s game-show music underscores every scene into silly wackiness. Indeed it feels as if the film is set in that decade, when in fact it’s taking place in the 90s. As the story progresses, the audience is kept guessing as to whether Mr. Whitacre is a hero or a fraud. Perhaps the filmmakers thought this ambiguity would enhance the comedic tone of the film. It doesn’t. Comedy drama is confusing at times, and boring at others. Matt Damon does give an engaging performance, however.
Woodstock – 3 Days of Peace & Music
Posted in Documentary, History, Music with tags 1970 on September 14, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Sprawling, historically significant documentary about the concert that occurred on Max Yasgur’s farm at Bethel, New York in August 1969. This chronicle does more to explain the 60s counterculture than perhaps any other record. Using split-screen techniques, director Michael Wadleigh, shows us performances, mixed with interviews of both the artists and attendees. The many logistical problems that occurred in putting on this show are ignored in favor of presenting an idyllic view of “3 Days of Peace & Music”. Not particularly honest, but consistently entertaining, nonetheless.
Death Becomes Her
Posted in Comedy, Fantasy with tags 1992 on September 13, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Black comedy about Madeline Ashton, a fading actress who steals the fiancé of her longtime rival, Helen Sharp. Years later, Madeline feels compelled to try a miracle cure for aging, after seeing how well her nemesis has aged. At best, the film is a delightful romp, infused with satire and wit. At worst. it’s a stridently hyperactive shell of a film, overshadowed by freakish special effects. The problem, is that the movie is both and the story constantly vacillates between these two extremes. Luckily there are enough inspired moments to recommend this well acted, albeit campy film.
Extract
Posted in Comedy with tags 2009 on September 10, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Amusing workplace comedy about a defeated factory owner whose life is on downward spiral after a freak accident happens to one of the workers at his plant. Subtle comedy has a quiet rhythm to it that gets better as it goes along. Many of the laughs come from how quickly his life spins out of control. However, the film can also be rather serious at times, with just enough humanity to make it more than just a silly comedy. Director Mike Judge has a feel for this type of material and he succeeds here with an excellent cast.
Wendy and Lucy
Posted in Drama with tags 2008 on September 2, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Road movie about a down on her luck woman whose car breaks down in Oregon on her way to Alaska. Michele Williams gives an intimate, heartbreaking performance as Wendy, the woman who continues to experience one setback after another with only her faithful dog, Lucy, to keep her company. Film’s low key, deliberate pace may bore some. Patient viewers, however, will be rewarded by its quiet charm.
The Final Destination
Posted in Horror, Thriller with tags 2009 on September 1, 2009 by Mark Hobin
Despite avoiding death during a horrible accident at a racetrack, a teenager finds he and his friends are still marked for death. Deceptively titled 4th film in the slasher franchise (THE final destination? Yeah right) is just an excuse to kill more people in bizarre ways. The deaths are formulaic and campy but the 3D effects do go a long way in making this film watchable.
Fast Film Reviews 