This year’s summer films are not as prestigious as the past few years, but still pack a punch. The major films are sequels or remakes like Iron Man 2, Toy Story 3, Shrek Forever After, A-Team (TV), Sex and the City 2, Cats & Dogs: The revenge of Kitty Galore, Twilight Eclipse, Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang, Robin Hood, Step Up 3D, Predators, The Karate Kid and even a re-realease Grease (Sing-Along).
Although I like the story and acting in The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, I also feel that it is extremely violent and sadistic. The latter I feel destroys some of the entertainment value of the movie. That said, the mystery and suspense are captured very nicely with great camera work and masterful direction.
The mesmerizing crime film A Prophet gets rolling quickly and then settles in to some interesting character development and storytelling to it’s twisted ending. The acting, directing, cinematography are superb making it a must see for film buffs, prison drama lovers and filmmaking students. A Prophet was nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Film.
Nominated for an Academy Award for best foreign film, Ajami comes to American theatres with a stark depiction of what culture clash is like in the Middle East. I liked the film because it gets into the grit of crime, confrontation, discrimination and hatred that can make life a hell. Well-acted, directed and presented Ajami is a must see for adults.