Review: Avatar

Director: James Cameron

Starring: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana

Year: 2009

Genre: Action/Adventure

Rated: PG-13

Length: 162 min.

IMDB Summary: A paraplegic Marine dispatched to the moon Pandora on a unique mission becomes torn between following his orders and protecting the world he feels is his home.

Review:
Outsider feels disconnected from self. He proceeds to visit a village of native peoples. He experiences self-awakening and then helps the natives defend against his former allies. Sound familiar? Of course, I'm not talking about Pocahontas or Dances with Wolves--this hackneyed, worked-to-death plot has now been transplanted to a sci-fi world, in which a Marine experiences this inner awakening as he assimilates into a culture of blue, tailed, Gumby-esque creatures. Combine that plot with weak acting and Marines portrayed as black-hearted killing robots, and your doom is sealed. Not only does Avatar thrive off the idea that a virtual reality is preferable to the real world--it also makes the Marines appear war-mongering fools. Despite regrettable incidents of unprovoked violence against native peoples, the U.S. military is portrayed in Avatar as sadistic, eager to kill and maim for pleasure. Also, the native creatures are portrayed as innocent and wholly good, adding to the superficiality of the film. A simplistic (and rather ethnocentric) view is taken of pantheism. To add insult to injury, the white guy--the outsider to their culture--becomes the hero, saving the natives who cannot save themselves. There are some exciting action sequences, giving this movie a definite edge in the market. But--with a cliche plot, weak acting and dubious characterization--Avatar fails in epic proportions to tell a story worth repeating.

For Parents:
Action violence

My Rating:
*

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Review: Hidalgo

Director: Joe Johnston

Starring: Viggo Mortensen, Omar Sharif, Zuleikha Robinson

Year: 2004

Genre: Action/Adventure

Rated: PG-13

Length: 136 min.

IMDB Summary: In 1890, a down-and-out cowboy and his horse travel to Arabia compete in a deadly cross desert horse race.

Review:
This film was a bit disjointed and superficial for my taste, despite the true story behind it. While Mortensen gave a decent performance at intervals, he often came across as whiny (reminiscent of Owen Wilson's character in Night at the Museum) or breathy (reminiscent of Mortensen's role in The Lord of the Rings). He relied on shouts and glares to portray masculinity, though his horsemanship undoubtedly shone throughout the film. What really irritated me was the underdeveloped character arc concerning his Native American heritage. We see his ethnic struggle in the opening Buffalo Bill scenes, only for this battle to disappear until the end of the film, when he is suddenly struck by a vision of his ancestors. There is so much that Johnston could have done with this character arc that he instead casts aside for cowboy talk, gun-slinging and action sequences. The character's individuality sinks below the surface and all we see is a gun-toting cowboy racing for no substantial reason through three-thousand miles of desert.

Also, except for Sharif's character, I found the portrayal of the Arabs canned and ho-hum. It wasn't racist or offensive--it was just boring as heck. There's the greedy one, the pompous one, the groveling one...need I continue. Oh, and the damsel in distress who does not wish to marry a man she does not love. Watching Mortensen ride off into the sunset with her was almost too much. Despite some exciting action sequences and one irresistibly charming horse, Hidalgo takes itself far too seriously for an action flick and should be considered entertainment only.

For Parents:
Action violence and mild innuendo

My Rating:
***

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Review: Prince of Persia

Director: Mike Newell

Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Gemma Arterton, Ben Kingsley

Year: 2010

Genre: Action/Adventure

Rated: PG-13

Length: 116 min.

IMDB Summary: A young fugitive prince and princess must stop a villain who unknowingly threatens to destroy the world with a special dagger that enables the magic sand inside to reverse time.

Review:
I'll admit I was very skeptical when confronted with the idea of a film based on a video game. However, despite cardboard characters and a mechanized plot, the filmmakers of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time manage to pull it off, with riveting action sequences, animation and special effects. Also, the banter between the two lead characters helps the movie maintain a fast and fun atmosphere that doesn't take itself too seriously. Don't look for any substance--it's not there. What you can find are fast-paced adventure and skillfully edited action sequences. If you enjoy action flicks, then Prince of Persia may be worth a watch.

For Parents:
Action violence, including hand-to-hand combat

My Rating:
***

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Review: Apollo 13

Director: Ron Howard

Starring: Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon, Ed Harris

Year: 1995

Genre: Drama

Rated: PG

Length: 140 min.

IMDB Summary: True story of the moon-bound mission that developed severe trouble and the men that rescued it with skill and dedication.

Review:
Based on a real-life disaster-turned-triumph, the critically-acclaimed Apollo 13 brings stellar acting, directing and editing to the big screen. Hanks is great in the lead role, adding emotional intensity to otherwise technical scenes. I was impressed with the raising of the stakes throughout the movie, wonderfully captured by the camera's cutting back and forth between the Houston mission control center and the Apollo 13 rocket. The emotional intensity of this film was great and kept the story moving forward. Whether or not you enjoy space-related films, I recommend Apollo 13 for the sense of motion and intensity that its fine acting, directing and editing create.

For Parents:
Language and emotional intensity, especially when the men are trapped and freezing in the rocket with little food and little hope for survival

My Rating:
*****

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Review: Mountains of the Moon

Director: Bob Rafelson

Starring: Patrick Bergin, Iain Glen, Richard E. Grant

Year: 1990

Genre: Action/Adventure

Rated: R

Length: 136 min.

IMDB Summary: The story of Captain Richard Francis Burton's and Lt. John Hanning Speke's expedition to find the source of the Nile river in the name of Queen Victoria's British Empire.

Review:
Historically accurate, this film is worth the watch for its acting, cinematography and music. The plot may be embellished a bit for the big screen, but filmmakers skillfully portray the mixed emotions surrounding this harrowing and frightful journey to find the source of the Nile. Bergin was a bit stale as fearless explorer Richard Burton, but Glen was brilliant in his portrayal of Speke.The grit and gore depicted in this film are definitely not for the faint of heart. Watch Mountains of the Moon for its acting, cinematography and soundtrack, but if violence disturbs you, then keep your distance.

For Parents:
A bit too graphic for my taste, including a man's leg stabbed numerous times as a torture, a spear thrust through a man's cheek and then pulled out, an amputation and bugs carrying disease. Some language. Not a family movie.

My Rating:
***

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Review: Ella Enchanted

Director: Tommy O'Haver

Starring: Anne Hathaway, Hugh Dancy, Cary Elwes

Year: 2004

Genre: Family

Rated: PG

Length: 96 min.

IMDB Summary: Ella is under a spell to be constantly obedient, a fact she must hide from her new step-family in order to protect the prince of the land, her friend for whom she's falling.

Review:
As long as you're not looking for a replica of the book, you will probably enjoy Ella Enchanted for its lighthearted, comedic romance plot and weird, wacky cast of characters. Hathaway is charming as Ella. The plot moves briskly enough and, despite the cheesy music, the film manages to successfully entertain viewers from 96 minutes. My least favorite part of this film was the ending, which is sappy and a poor tribute to the book. Although not as spellbinding as Gail Carson Levin's book, Ella Enchanted, with its lighthearted plot and acting, is a family film that's worth a watch.

For Parents:
Some crude humor and language

My Rating:
***

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Review: Mamma Mia!

Director: Phillydia Lloyd

Starring: Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Colin Firth

Year: 2008

Genre: Romance/Comedy

Rated: PG-13

Length: 108 min.

IMDB Summary: The story of a bride-to-be trying to find her real father told using hit songs by the popular '70s group ABBA.

Review:
If you don't have an affinity for ABBA songs, then this film is a creative and highly entertaining method of torture. The humorous and lighthearted moments--in other words, most of the film--are overshadowed by numerous reprises of hit 70s songs, most regrettably "Dancing Queen." While the songs are used in context, for the most part, they detract from the comedy of the storyline. Though there are funny moments in Mamma Mia!, the ABBA songs may as well be instant death to this otherwise enjoyable film.

For Parents:
Some sexual innuendo

My Rating:
**

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Review: Gallipoli

Director: Peter Weir

Starring: Mel Gibson, Mark Lee, Bill Kerr

Year: 1981

Genre: Action/Adventure

Rated: PG

Length: 110 min.

IMDB Summary: Two Australian sprinters face the brutal realities of war when they are sent to fight in the Gallipoli campaign in Turkey during World War I.

Review:
Despite Gibson's charisma, Gallipoli falls flat because it tries too hard to drive its viewpoint home. Not only is the lead character naive, innocent and youthful--he has blonde hair, somewhat resembles a California surfer and lives in a rural, impoverished area. A perfect specimen to depict an innocent youth corrupted by the evils of war. All too perfect. With Lee's character bringing zero energy to the plot--rather dragging it down, with cliche acting--the path is cleared for Gibson's character to practically run the show. Perhaps a welcome relief for Lee, but Gibson's monopoly on the entertainment factor of Gallipoli certainly did not boost my appreciation for the film or its message regarding the tragedy of war, practically shoved down the viewer's throat. Yes, Gallipoli was a military disaster and a human tragedy--however, the film adaption bombards viewers with the message that war is hell, from the lead's disillusionment with the concept of battle to the final five seconds of the movie, which come across as maudlin and overdone rather than sincere and subtle. More originality and subtlety could have garnered Gallipoli far more recognition in the film industry and beyond as a classic war movie. Unfortunately, this film, with its trite characters and dogmatically-presented message, does not even come close to the success it could have achieved.

For Parents:
Some war-related violence, but little blood is shown. Brief partial nudity. Some off-duty soldiers enter a red-light district where prostitutes are dressed seductively, some with no tops; they disappear into a building, and nothing more is shown. This film might have been rated PG-13 today, due to the brief partial nudity.

My Rating:
*
 
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Review: The Mummy

Director: Stephen Sommers

Starring: Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz, John Hannah

Year: 1999

Genre: Action/Adventure

Rated: PG-13

Length: 125 min.

IMDB Summary: An American serving in the French Foreign Legion on an archaeological dig at the ancient city of Hamunaptra accidentally awakens a Mummy.

Review:
The action plot may be riveting and the special effects may dazzle the eye, but what made this film work for me was the quirky cast of characters. Surprisingly, the lead contributes to much of the humor, which is complemented by supporting characters. The adventurous beat of the film is fondly reminiscent of the Indiana Jones series, without trying too hard to meet such a lofty standard. Filmmakers skillfully do not show the mummy right away, instead tantalizing readers with hints, suggestions and evidence of its presence. The music and cinematography are also good quality, adding to the suspense and adventure of the film. Don't expect to find deep, literary characters--this is an action flick, after all--but expect some surprises and loveable quirks among this band of explorers. While the action sequences are fast-paced and exciting, what really makes The Mummy an enjoyable watch is the humor and fun that the characters bring to the table.

For Parents:
Some action/adventure violence

My Rating:
****

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Review: The Princess Diaries

Director: Garry Marshall

Starring: Julie Andrews, Anne Hathaway, Hector Elizondo

Year: 2001

Genre: Family

Rated: G

Length: 115 min.

IMDB Summary: Mia Thermopolis has just found out that she is the heir apparent to the throne of Genovia. With her friends Lilly and Michael Moscovitz in tow, she tries to navigate through the rest of her 15th year.

Review:
This film puzzles me...Andrews and Hathaway are magical together, the premise is sound, the cinematography is decent, the music is workable, and yet The Princess Diaries feels incredibly stilted and strained, as if filmmakers know we've seen this plot before but continue down the beaten path regardless. With its big stars and promising premise, this movie could have been phenomenal. Instead, The Princess Diaries relies on frivolous character interactions which drive home the point to viewers that this type of plot has, in fact, been done before. I was disappointed by the film's run-of-the-mill jokes--the mere concept of a princess sitting in a high school classroom should have given screenwriters plenty of fodder for laughs. However, the initial charm of The Princess Diaries quickly wears off, leaving viewers to contemplate why they spent 115 minutes in this visual limbo.

For Parents:
Some mild flirtation at a beach party

My Rating:
*
 
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Review: The Karate Kid

Director: Harald Zwart

Starring: Jaden Smith, Jackie Chan

Year: 2010

Genre: Family

Rated: PG

Length: 140 min.

IMDB Summary: Work causes a single mother to move to China with her young son; in his new home, the boy embraces kung fu, taught to him by a master.

Review:
While it might not pack the same punch as the original, The Karate Kid is a highly entertaining family movie, with good acting, directing and cinematography. Sure, it's a bit odd that the martial arts discipline in the title--karate--differs from that in the actual film--kung fu--but this discrepancy is forgivable in light of the fun, fast-paced and family-oriented storyline. This movie is just as much about family, friendships and forgiveness as it is about a boy's quest to master kung fu. Chan's quality acting adds emotional depth to the film without detracting from Smith's performance. I also enjoyed the emphasis on adapting to a new culture, as the characters move from a Detroit neighborhood to China and experience some culture shock. Although not as memorable as the original, The Karate Kid would be a delightful choice for a family movie night.

For Parents:
Some martial arts action, bullying and mild language

My Rating:
****
 
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Review: Superman Returns

Director: Bryan Singer

Starring: Brandon Routh, Kevin Spacey, Kate Bosworth

Year: 2006

Genre: Action/Adventure

Rated: PG-13

Length: 154 min.

IMDB Summary: After a long visit to the lost remains of the planet Krypton, the Man of Steel returns to Earth to become the people's savior once again and reclaim the love of Lois Lane.

Review:
Although filled with action and slick editing, this adaption of Superman Returns does not bring the acting talent of the original and is executed in such a by-the-book fashion that it falls flat. Routh is hardly convincing as the nerdy Clark Kent, and the fact that the straightforward script contains no surprises or twists for the character does not make Routh's performance any easier. The plot itself brings nothing new to the table, save a few years' worth of havoc caused by Lex Luther and his minions. Kent resumes his job at the newspaper and has an equally dull relationship with Lois Lane. When all is said and done, Singer's Superman Returns lacks the thematic intensity of Nolan's Batman franchise, the likeable lead character of Johnston's Captain America and, to make matters worse, the humorous moments of Raimi's Spiderman. If you must see this film, then do so for the action sequences and slick editing--not for the quality of the acting, plot or script.

For Parents:
Some action violence

My Rating:
*

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Review: Gandhi

Director: Richard Attenborough

Starring: Ben Kingsley, John Gielgud, Candice Bergen

Year: 1982

Genre: Drama

Rated: PG

Length: 191 min.

IMDB Summary: Biography of Mohandas K. Gandhi, the lawyer who became the famed leader of the Indian revolts against the British rule through his philosophy of non-violent protest.

Review:
One thing is for certain about this film: Kingsley is brilliant in his portrayal of Gandhi. With subtle acting that captures the voice and mannerisms of this inspirational, charismatic leader, Kingsley helps Gandhi become the cinematic masterpiece that it is. I was also impressed by the music, cinematography and historical depiction of India in the 1930s and 40s. Quiet and understated, Gandhi abounds with the top-notch acting, skillful directing and masterful cinematography of a classic film.

For Parents:
Some violence (beating, clubbing, rioting, a decapitation off-screen) that is probably today's PG-13

My Rating:
*****

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Review: The Last Emperor

Director: Bernardo Bertolucci

Starring: John Lone, Joan Chen, Peter O'Toole

Year: 1987

Genre: Drama

Rated: PG-13

Length: 163 min.

IMDB Summary: The story of the final Emperor of China.

Review:
A life that begins as an emperor of China and ends as a poor gardener is a movie waiting to be made--fortunately, for historians and moviegoers alike, Bertolucci's adaption of Pu Yi's life is extraordinary and exceptional in its directing, acting, cinematography, music and storyline. The historical settings depicted in the film are so skillfully-crafted that it's hard to believe The Last Emperor was made in the eighties. I was especially impressed with the scene featuring a bar in Manchukuo, where Japanese women were dressed as flappers and dancing to American music. The Forbidden City scenes earlier in the film were stunning, the cinematography bringing out the vivid red and gold colors of the courtyard, creating an atmosphere that is truly majestic. Another aspect of the film which I appreciated was the camera's cutting back and forth between Pu Yi as a young emperor and Pu Yi as a prisoner in a Japanese camp. These scenes were handled delicately and artistically, showing Bertolucci's skill as a director. History geek or not, I recommend that you see The Last Emperor--the directing, acting, cinematography, music and storyline resemble that of a cinematic masterpiece, making this movie definitely worth the watch.

For Parents:
Some sexual innuendo (a man with two wives under the covers, women behaving suggestively under the influence of opium, eunuchs carrying testicles in jars--not visible), some violence (cutting wrists, shootings, film footage of decomposed bodies), one use of strong language

My Rating:
*****

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Review: Edward Scissorhands

Director: Tim Burton

Starring: Johnny Depp, Wynona Ryder, Dianne Wiest

Year: 1990

Genre: Romance/Comedy

Rated: PG-13

Length: 105 min.

IMDB Summary: An uncommonly gentle young man, who happens to have scissors for hands, falls in love with a beautiful teenage girl.

Review:
Zany and weird, Edward Scissorhands is best described as a cult classic. There's nothing new about the plot--boy likes girl, and must overcome obstacles to be with her--but the concept of a man with giant scissors for hands is somewhat of a novelty to the big screen. Perhaps this accounts for the success of the film, which also features the acting talents of a young Johnny Depp. Although I personally found it a bit weird and far-fetched for my taste, you may well enjoy Edward Scissorhands for the cult classic that it is.

For Parents:
Some action violence (including mild stabbings), sexual innuendo, gothic tone toward end of film

My Rating:
*

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Review: The Way Back

Director: Peter Weir

Starring: Jim Sturgess, Ed Harris, Colin Farrell

Year: 2010

Genre: Action/Adventure

Rated: PG-13

Length: 133 min.

IMDB Summary: Siberian gulag escapees walk 4000 miles overland to freedom in India.

Review:
The Way Back was an entertaining survival story within a historical setting, despite some cheesy music and cinematography resembling a National Geographic show (after all, National Geographic funded the film). The acting was good, though I did not feel a connection with any of the characters apart from the lead. The middle of the movie gets a little slow, as the escapees trek across Siberia and the Gobi Desert. So much time is spent in these two locales, in fact, that the journey across the Himalayas seems to be depicted in fast forward, as the escapees suddenly end up in Northern India, with small children laughing and clinging to them. I think that the final shots, of a husband and wife reuniting years later, were unnecessary--Weir could have used text onscreen to inform viewers, which would have been a more stylistic and less confusing approach. If you enjoy survival films, then The Way Back is a movie you won't want to miss.

For Parents:
Some violence (a stabbing, elements of nature cause sunstroke and frozen bodies, starvation, teeth fall out, threatening with guns and knives) and brief strong language (in subtitles)

My Rating:
***

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Review: Star Trek

Director: J.J. Abrams

Starring: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg

Year: 2009

Genre: Action/Adventure

Rated: PG-13

Length: 127 min.

IMDB Summary: The brash James T. Kirk tries to live up to his father's legacy with Mr. Spock keeping him in check as a vengeful, time-traveling Romulan creates black holes to destroy the Federation one planet at a time.

Review:
While this is a fair rekindling of the Star Trek franchise, it does not possess the inherent pull of actors such as Nimoy and Kelley, instead relying on special effects, sharp editing and the fame of the earlier movies to draw its audience. I liked the casting of characters Spock, Bones and Scotty. However, I found the character arc with Kirk a bit distracting from the action plot of the film. Also, the romance between Kirk and Uhura turned out to be confusing and mishandled. Despite its shortcomings, including a lengthy prologue, Star Trek is a fun action flick that transports the charm of the original series to from one generation to the next.

For Parents:
Some sci-fi violence, mild language and a brief sexual encounter unnecessary to the plot

My Rating:
***

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