Well acted and directed Casino Jack provides a scary look into government politics and though the eyes of super lobbyist Jack Abramoff. It’s Kevin Spacey at his best with a brilliantly cringing performance that tells all about the government gangster who goes out of control. With Barry Pepper at Spacey’s side, this film comes up a winner.
I’m not a film elitist by any means, but I’ve had a hard time all year trying to find films to put on my top 10 list; those films I think should be held out for recognition. For the most part, I believe, it’s been a really lame year for the industry in terms of memorable films. In terms of box office however, the opposite is true, it’s been the best year since 1927.
The film tries to be part alien invasion, part road movie and part love story, either which alone might have made for a better film. It should have been much more entertain than it was. I found it a kind of throw back to the B-grade films of the 50’s, with its tentacled, bioluminescent aliens, rather than a say a more contemporary “Cloverfield†style film, which generated more thrills and suspenseful moments.
The acting performances of the year are the main reason to see the true historical movie The King’s Speech a period piece that takes place in England during the mid 1930’s. Stellar performances by both Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush make this film a must see. The storyline is a true, one that dramatically affected England during the beginning of World War II. If you like films that are interesting, moving and biographical then The King’s Speech will leave you speechless.
[jwplayer mediaid=”5842″] This is a breakout film for Jim Carey
Here’s an odd love story that is actually based on fact. It’s called I Love You Phillip Morris and features interesting roles by Jim Carrey and Ewan McGregor who fall in love when they meet as prisoners in a penitentiary. Daring performances heat up the screen with their oddball characters challenging the criminal justice system and social standards.
What’s extra good about the 3D movie Gulliver’s Travels is that it contains almost no offensive material, so most families can bring their children without too much worry that they will get offended. Even though we have Jack Black as the lead character there really isn’t a lot of rude humor. If you have young children and they like adventure films with comedy, then Gulliver’s Travels should make them happy.
[jwplayer mediaid=”5836″] Jack Black trying to be real movie star!!
Not many westerns get an opportunity for a remake, and frankly True Grit should not have fallen to Hollywood’s whim. Outside of some brief signs of good acting, there isn’t much more to cheer about. Even the cinematography in this outing, which was a big part of the original, doesn’t make the film any better. If you have already seen True Grit with John Wayne, then I do not recommend seeing it all over again with Jeff Bridges.
Now on screens everywhere How Do You Know, a lively romantic comedy that hits a home run in acting, direction and screenplay. The film does what most comedies seem to have missed, entertain with heart. If you like your romance with an interesting story, fun characters and a lot of energy, then How Do You Know should be high on your list.