"Equilibrium"

This film is a combination of George Orwell's '1984,' 'Faerenheight 451,' 'The Matrix,' and Lois Lowry's book 'The Giver.'  In a distopian society where everyone is dependent on a drug called 'prozium' which suppresses all human emotion, Cleric John Preston played by Christian Bale, lives a life of enforcement against societies 'sense offenders.'  These people's crime is that they have stopped their drug regimen and have begun again to feel human emotion.  The films opening scene shows clerics played by Bale, and Sean Bean of 'Lord of the Rings' fame slaughtering a number of 'sense offenders,' and then after verifying their authenticity, burning a number of famous pieces of art including the Mona Lisa. 

The entire premise of this film is set in the aftermath of the third world war.  In order to halt 'man's inhumanity to man,' the before mentioned drug is created, and all of society descends into a world of complete obedience to the will of their leader, or father, and constant fear (at least for those who are sense offenders) of capture and summary execution.

The film is nicely done with a number of exciting action sequences in that 'Matrix' style.  It does not however rely on action to define itself as a movie.  Bale does a wonderful job of showing us what it might be like to re-discover emotion, and there are a number of moving scenes in which he conveys that discovery beautifully, such as when he accidentally turns on a record of one of Beethoven's symphony's.

I would highly recommend this film for anyone interested in that 'Matrix'esque' style, or for a more recent comparison those that enjoyed 'The Hunger Games.'  They are two completely different films of course, but some of the moral dilemmas that the characters grapple with are mirrored here in 'Equilibrium.'  In the end, this films helps us discover that it is not our actions that define us...because even without the benefit of emotion, great evils are perpetrated in this film, it is the presence of emotion, the good and the bad that makes us who we are.

-David

In a world where "feeling" is a crime, and people are simultaneously murdered for listening to music, appreciating art, reading books...this is the world of Equilibrium. Christian Bale plays the protagonist in this film, a "cleric" working for the totalitarian government who carries out these "raids" until one day he misses a dose of the medicine which hinders emotion, and his eyes are opened up to a whole new world.

Bale is very believable as a person void of emotion with his stoic and serious tone. Yet when he does start to feel, he does a good job of displaying quiet intensity, showing us what it might be like for a person who is not used to emotion to suddenly be filled with wonder, sadness, and love.

There are many actors and actresses in this movie, who add their own depth in their roles, Sean Bean, Taye Diggs, and Emily Watson.

If I was going to describe this movie for you, I would say it is a mix of The Matrix, The Giver, even elements of The Hunger Games can be found as this takes place in a distopian society.

While there is a lot of violence, it's not very bloody, though a few scenes may make you cringe. And if you are sensitive to the use of guns in films, then you may want to avoid this one, as guns are used about as often as they are in The Matrix.

I would say I enjoyed this film, though I'm not completely satisfied with the ending. It works, but I was almost left with feeling like there should have been a bit more...overall though, good story, with nicely done choreographed action scenes.

-Bethany

"Enemy at the Gates"

In 'Enemy at the Gates,' we witness the Battle of Stalingrad fought between the Soviet Union and the Nazi third Reich.  One of the reasons that I enjoy this film is because it is a rarity to see a World War II film from the point of view of the Russians.  It was the Russians who lost the most people in the war, and probably whom we know the least history about.  In America, we think little about the 'Godless Communists,' but it is a fact that without their huge sacrifice in manpower and equipment, we very well may have lost the war.

The film follows a young soldier named Vasily Zaietsev who during the battle of Stalingrad joins the Soviet sniper division.  The story has two main parts, a bit of a love triangle between Vassili, his friend (a political officer in the Soviet Army,) and a woman by the name of Tania.  The usual shenanigans ensue with the two men ending up at odds over the woman, but learning to value their friendship even after one of them gets the girl, and the other is left in the cold. 

The military portion of the film focuses on a sniper duel between Vasily and a German Colonel by the name of Konig played expertly by Ed Harris.  The two spend a large portion of the film playing am incredibly intense game of cat and mouse moving from place to place in the ruined city of Stalingrad.  This game ends of course with one victor, but there are losses on both sides before the final climax of the film.

'Enemy at the Gates' is one of the best World War II films ever made.  There are no other films that make war quite as personal such as a film that focuses on the sniper.  The sniper who so intimately fights, sees, and kills his adversary. 

-David

'Enemy at the Gates' is an extremely well done film, focusing on the young Russian soldier Vasily Zaietsev (Jude Law). In addition to the sniper duel, that David mentions above, we are shown what seems to be a very realistic view of what it would be like to be in the Russian communist army. In the opening scene, we see scores of men and women pushed onto and off of trains, forced into battle, with one soldier receiving bullets, while another receives a gun. If the men try to run back, they are shot at by their own generals for retreating. And this just the opening scene.

In addition to following Vasily through the film, we meet a female soldier (Rachel Weisz) who plays an important role, and a political officer who uses Vasily's incredible sniper abilities as positive propaganda to encourage the entire Russian army, whose fate becomes intertwined with Vasily.

Enemy at the Gates shows us some disturbing images of the casualties of war, yet it is not shown unnecessarily, and is there to make a point, that people are hurt, and people die in these conflicts.

The dialogue is superb, as is the acting, and if you are a fan of military films, specifically WWII, this is a movie you do not want to miss.

-Bethany

"Elf"

And with perfect timing, we find ourselves writing about a wonderful modern Christmas movie.  "Elf" is a great film that captures you from the opening credits all the way through to the end.  For those that may have missed this one, it is the story of Buddy the elf who is actually an orphaned human that hitched a ride to the North Pole in Santa's toy bag,  Buddy is reared by elves at the North Pole, but when he discover that he is a human and not an elf, he embarks on an adventure to 'a magical land' called New York City to find his father and discover his identity.  What ensues is hilarity and a truly wonderful Christmas story.

 Buddy is played perfectly by Will Ferrell, and he is supported by a number of wonderful actors including Zoe Deschanel who lends her sultry voice to the picture.  Elf is a story that truly captures the Christmas spirit and is so beautifully woven that you forget the sheer ridiculousness of the whole thing!  'Elf' is a great film, and I would highly recommend watching it this holiday season....even if you have already seen it every year since it was released.

-David

As far as timing goes, this movie worked out perfectly as we find ourselves only a day and half away from Christmas. Elf is such a fun film, and really puts a smile on your face. Will Ferrell is brilliant as Buddy the Elf, who was adopted by elves as a baby, but after discovering he is in fact a human, he travels to the magical New York City to find his father...who is on the naughty list. :(

Through a series of hilarious mishaps, such as trying to hug a raccoon or cutting down a tree in Central Park to use as a Christmas tree, Elf is a film that will make you laugh out loud. It's also a film that will warm your heart. As Buddy says, "The best way to spread Christmas Cheer is to sing loud for all to hear!"

In addition to Will Ferrell, Zooey Deschanel does an excellent job as a toy shop worker who catches Buddy eye, and the two do a lovely rendition of "Baby it's Cold Outside."

Overall, Elf is a feel good movie that will definitely put you in the Christmas mood, and give you some good laughs along the way.

Merry Christmas!!!!

-Bethany

"Edward Scissorhands"

Next in our lineup of Tim Burton films is Edward Scissorhands.  There are few that don't know the story of this film, but for those that don't, it is basically a Frankenstein tale.  The story of a highly sympathetic 'monster' who is misunderstood, misused and feared by society.  There are several main themes in this film however, and one must watch the film to fully appreciate all that can be gleaned from it.

One of the things that this film focuses on is the contrast between the 'drabness' of suburbia and the wonderful creation that is Edward.  Burton's commentary is one that shows up in his films regularly.  'Scissorhands' is truly a masterpiece of a film, and while heartbreaking, is a perfect film to remind us of the value of creation, the value of tolerance, and the value of love.

-David

Edward Scissorhands is a beautiful, bittersweet, and heart-breaking story. Johnny Depp does such an amazing job of making you feel compassion for Edward, whose sees his new surroundings with the wide eyed wonder of a child. His soft, gentle words work their way into your heart. Even though he is just a fictional character, for almost two hours you find yourself lost in his world, seeing things through his innocent eyes.

The haunting music, vibrant colors and sincere goodness of some of the characters, such as the Avon Lady, make this a film worth watching, though be prepared to shed a few tears or at least be left with a sense of melancholy.

If you have seen this film, you know exactly what I mean. If you have not seen this film, I would very much encourage you to take the time to experience Tim Burton's brilliant masterpiece.

-Bethany

"Down Periscope"

'Down Periscope' is one of those comedies that is really fun to get out and watch about once a year.  If I remember correctly I picked this up in the five dollar bin at Target, and it was worth the five bucks....probably no more however.

As a simple fun comedy, this film has it all.  Slapstick, puns, and a good fart joke.  Even a good pirate scene in which the chief of the boat walks the plank.  Kelsey Grammer stars as Commander Dodge, a somewhat washed up Naval officer who just doesn't have the correct attitude, (or support from his superiors) to be given his own sub command...that is until an Admiral played by Rip Torn, has an idea for a war game.  Dodge is given command of an antiquated diesel powered submarine and asked to infiltrate two major US naval bases.  What ensues is a mess, but a very funny mess.

'Down Periscope' is another of our movies that is perfect for the evening when you need something to watch and not be overly serious.  As we watch this...the first 2012 presidential debate is being aired...yes, we listened to some of it, but frankly....this is way more fun.

-David

This is a really fun movie. Kelsey Grammar is in top form, as the slightly unconventional submarine commander with a somewhat famous tattoo. Rip Torn also does well, as do all the men of the diesel submarine, which participates in a series of war games.

I have found myself laughing on several occasions, enjoying the sophomoric humor and one specific "walking the plank" scene where you can't help but smile. And of the course the slightly electrocuted electrician is always good for a laugh.

If you enjoy a good comedy and the acting capabilities of Kelsey Grammer, I would definitely recommend this movie. There's not much more else to say expect, it's fun.

-Bethany

"Dodgeball, A True Underdog Story"

'Dodgeball' and other types of comedies made in the same mold are very black and white for me.  I either love the film, or hate it.  All these films seem to have a connection beyond the comedic subject as well, sharing many of the same actors.  Actors like Will Ferrel, Vince Vaughn and Ben Stiller.  'Dodgeball' falls on the love side of these films for me, as I find it absolutely hilarious.  The one liners are witty, and even if they can be a bit predictable, seem none the less to get a good laugh out of me.  There are a number of off color jokes, and if you are sensitive to un-politically correct remarks, don't watch this film.  Part of what I love about it however, is the way that even off color jokes are made to seem ridiculous, and most of the on screen reaction to them is one of confusion.  This is a film that has no problem poking fun at itself, and certainly doesn't take itself seriously.  Another enjoyable piece of this film is all of the celebrity cameos.  We are entertained by the likes of Chuck Norris, William Shatner, and Lance Armstrong.  'Dodgeball' does not disappoint and provides exactly what it was made for...entertainment.  If you are up for a laugh, and feel like wasting an hour and a half, 'Dodgeball' is your film, although for me, it was not a waste.

-David 

At the end of watching "Dodgeball" this evening, David mentioned pulling up our blog to write our review to which I replied, "I totally forgot that's why we we're watching it!" That must mean I enjoyed this movie. "Dodgeball" is a lot of fun, which plenty of opportunities to laugh (some in which you might feel ashamed for laughing). Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Christine Taylor, Justin Long, all do a superb job in this comedy. What makes it even more fun is knowing that Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor are married in real life. (If you've seen the movie, you know what I'm talking about.)

The celebrity cameo's are also great, William Shatner, Chuck Norris, Lance Armstrong... "Thank-you Chuck Norris."

If you are someone who enjoys comedies, and can tolerate a bit of "off" humour, then "Dodgeball" is definitely a movie you should see.

-Bethany

"Diary of a Mad Black Woman"

To begin, Tyler Perry films are not exactly favorites of mine.  I feel like the humor is full of fun and witty characters (such as the famous Madea,) and there are chunks of it that I find myself laughing out loud, or watching in anticipation.  The simple fact is that this film and his many other films are just not the type that I enjoy watching.  Full of drama, love triangles, somewhat canned dialogue and the like.

Now just because I do not enjoy this film, does not cause me to write it off.  I would say that the film is well done, just not the kind I watch for fun.  Perhaps I just can't find myself connecting with it.  The film centers around a voice over narration of a woman's diary as she describes her life's story of love lost, found etc.  Not exactly a story that I could easily connect with.  Still, as I watch I do find myself wrapped up in the story, maybe because even though I can't connect with the film as a whole, I can still get engrossed by a well told tale.

-David

Tyler Perry is good at comedy. When watching this movie for the first time, more than five years ago, I remember really liking it. Watching it now, I still enjoy parts of it, such as the comedic one-liners from Tyler Perry's Madea or Joe, but much of the serious dialogue, can seem a bit canned.

Tyler Perry does a good job, especially at playing multiple characters, and addressing very real, serious issues, such as adultery and drug addiction. I have seen quite a few Tyler Perry movies, including Why Did I Get Married 1 and 2, and Madea Goes To Jail. And I recently noticed another Madea movie out in theaters right now that looks pretty funny. Which brings me to what I enjoy most about his movies, his comedy, specifically Madea. She/He is a brilliant character, who provides great comic relief, and good commentary when the situation calls for it. Madea is a great character, and if you're looking for some good humor, Tyler Perry's got it. Diary of a Mad Black Woman has some great comic relief as well, but the majority of the film is drama. Which is not necessarily a bad thing, but I think what I enjoy most about his films is the comedy. I find that I struggle to connect with how his characters act at times in their relationships, and I don't really like the way he ends a specific scene near the end.

However, Tyler Perry movies are still fun, and can deliver important messages about forgiveness and redemption, which is something that you won't always find in other Hollywood films.

-Bethany