3 Things That Make "The Only Lovers Left Alive" The Perfect Indie Film
2014
,
filmmaking
,
films
,
movie reviews
,
movies
,
vampires
Cheap Tuesdays are a great time to enjoy the cinema. Tonight, I caught acclaimed indie director Jim Jarmusch's newest: The Only Lovers Left Alive. With a wonderful cast and hypnotizing soundtrack, this vampire tale is a prime example of a film that has all the right ingredients.
The following are my Top 3 reasons this film was so special:
1. Soundtrack & Cinematography & Art Direction
OK, I know that #1 is really three things but I want to make the list short!
That first opening shot with the two lovers, each revelling in their existence and the power of music was hypnotizing. The blend of the needle hitting the record, melting into their ethereal faces set the tone for a visual odyssey.
Match this with the selected soundtrack of classical, neo-rock/grunge, Eastern lilts and the lighter moments of the oldies really made the film a stunning montage of two lovers' very long lives.
And don't get me started on the art direction! The night is its own character as the story unfolds in a bustling and isolated Morocco, and of all places, Detroit. Two places that can be believably haunted by vampires. Then the costuming: the play of light and dark on Adam and Eve, the tattered fur of Ava really brings out the 'LA' in her. Also, don't forget the sunglasses. Since when were vampires such rockstars?
2. Cast
I cannot think of a better cast for this film. Tilda Swinton is a magnificent actress who embodies every role, once she becomes a character there is no one else better fit for it. She is both angelic and alien, dangerous and lovely, mother and sinner.
Then there is Tom Hiddleston, one of the finest theatre actors of our time. Usually when an actor has a big caliber film like Thor under his belt you cannot forget their superhero/villain persona - not the case with this actor! Hiddleston brings out eternal angst with such grace, he is sexy, endearing and laughable. The two leads were meant for these roles. Their chemistry is perfect and they are definitely my favourite vampire couple (ahem, Twilight).
Special note to the supporting cast because they were all perfect, I cannot praise a cast more than I have for this film: Anton Yelchin, Mia Wasikowska, John Hurt and Jeffrey Wright.
3. Never takes itself too seriously
When you hear 'indie vampire' film, you usually think of something way too self-indulgent or don't even bother because you've seen it all before.
Let The Only Lovers Left Alive rid you of those notions! With enough smart humour and witty, well deserved laughs, this film will surprise you. Literary fans will enjoy this immensely as there are tons of easter eggs with nods/jabs to various literary heroes. There are moments where the seriousness and angst of these vampires are played upon; the nuclear family they attempt, the packing of their belongings and the hiding of a dead body. Also, enjoy seeing Detroit in its current state, a filmmaker has never made better use of a city.
Great writing and direction as this film is not a comedy but it's not a drama either, though it's not without its emotional moments. This is definitely something special, an instant cult classic!
Well, those are my three takeaways from Jarmusch's latest. If you're into independent films and are looking for something with wit, style and substance, you've found it.
The following are my Top 3 reasons this film was so special:
1. Soundtrack & Cinematography & Art Direction
OK, I know that #1 is really three things but I want to make the list short!
That first opening shot with the two lovers, each revelling in their existence and the power of music was hypnotizing. The blend of the needle hitting the record, melting into their ethereal faces set the tone for a visual odyssey.
Match this with the selected soundtrack of classical, neo-rock/grunge, Eastern lilts and the lighter moments of the oldies really made the film a stunning montage of two lovers' very long lives.
And don't get me started on the art direction! The night is its own character as the story unfolds in a bustling and isolated Morocco, and of all places, Detroit. Two places that can be believably haunted by vampires. Then the costuming: the play of light and dark on Adam and Eve, the tattered fur of Ava really brings out the 'LA' in her. Also, don't forget the sunglasses. Since when were vampires such rockstars?
2. Cast
Then there is Tom Hiddleston, one of the finest theatre actors of our time. Usually when an actor has a big caliber film like Thor under his belt you cannot forget their superhero/villain persona - not the case with this actor! Hiddleston brings out eternal angst with such grace, he is sexy, endearing and laughable. The two leads were meant for these roles. Their chemistry is perfect and they are definitely my favourite vampire couple (ahem, Twilight).
Special note to the supporting cast because they were all perfect, I cannot praise a cast more than I have for this film: Anton Yelchin, Mia Wasikowska, John Hurt and Jeffrey Wright.
3. Never takes itself too seriously
When you hear 'indie vampire' film, you usually think of something way too self-indulgent or don't even bother because you've seen it all before.Let The Only Lovers Left Alive rid you of those notions! With enough smart humour and witty, well deserved laughs, this film will surprise you. Literary fans will enjoy this immensely as there are tons of easter eggs with nods/jabs to various literary heroes. There are moments where the seriousness and angst of these vampires are played upon; the nuclear family they attempt, the packing of their belongings and the hiding of a dead body. Also, enjoy seeing Detroit in its current state, a filmmaker has never made better use of a city.
Great writing and direction as this film is not a comedy but it's not a drama either, though it's not without its emotional moments. This is definitely something special, an instant cult classic!
Well, those are my three takeaways from Jarmusch's latest. If you're into independent films and are looking for something with wit, style and substance, you've found it.
Amazing Spider-Man 2 - Impressive Visuals and Cast but Cliched and Unoriginal
Amazing Spider-Man 2 is back and bigger than ever. The sequel really takes things to a whole new level visually and comic book fans will be pleased to see how try they stay true to many of the weaving plotlines.
We are immersed into Peter Parker's world: his relationship with Gwen Stacy is haunted by the danger that follows his masked adventures; questions about his past are answered, and Harry Osborn is reintroduced as the menacing and unhinged rich boy. Also, Jamie Foxx creates laughs as Max Dillon whose character experiences a freak accident making him a visually impressive Electro.
I'm very impressed with the visuals, watching this on IMAX was the best choice - those fight scenes are unforgettable and really make use of 3D tech. Garfield and Stone are extremely charming and nauseatingly cute as Peter and Gwen, both lighting up the screen. What can you say, they were meant to be movie stars and on screen lovers.
This sequel surprised me with how much I actually enjoyed it. Still, the Spiderman films have always lacked some key ingredient, nothing was fresh or original, I was not once surprised and I felt like I had seen it before (well I have with Tobey McGuire).
The writers and directors need to bring Spidey deeper and not keep everything so on the surface. Even when there seems to be emotional or powerful moments they are downplayed and feel inauthentic. With the powerhouse VFX and strong actors the films could be so much more! This sequel came close but still felt a little thin, it was a lot more style than substance.
Hopefully, with the third instalment we can see a darker and more passionate side to Spidey.
I'm very impressed with the visuals, watching this on IMAX was the best choice - those fight scenes are unforgettable and really make use of 3D tech. Garfield and Stone are extremely charming and nauseatingly cute as Peter and Gwen, both lighting up the screen. What can you say, they were meant to be movie stars and on screen lovers.
This sequel surprised me with how much I actually enjoyed it. Still, the Spiderman films have always lacked some key ingredient, nothing was fresh or original, I was not once surprised and I felt like I had seen it before (well I have with Tobey McGuire).
Hopefully, with the third instalment we can see a darker and more passionate side to Spidey.
3 Reasons Every Filmmaker Needs to Take An Acting Class
2014
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acting
,
acting class
,
actors
,
directors
,
filmmaking
,
lessons in film
,
writers
It's been a while since I've been to an acting class and when I was in Vancouver visiting I dropped into my old haunt, at Shea Hampton's studio. Seeing my lovely friends definitely made me nostalgic to the days of being a thespian, it also made me realize many things from the new perspective of a writer/director.
As a filmmaker it is your responsibility to make sure cast and crew cooperate, even if you have an amazing script/cinematographer/etc, your film can flounder if there is no teamwork.
1. Learning How to Work With Actors
There is a well known gap on film sets between the crew and the actors. Oftentimes I have found that resentment and tension can arise because of the misunderstanding between roles. Crew will complain about lazy actors and actors will complain about harsh directors.
This is why it is important for filmmakers to attend at least one acting class, to see how much heart and soul actors put into their craft. For filmmakers their craft is the camera, the shot, the story - for the actor, their craft is their emotional life and vulnerability. Two artists with two different tools, one with a camera, the other with their mind and body.
Attending an acting class allows you to witness how much work actors put, not only to memorizing their lines, but in getting to be vulnerable. On-set you're so busy prepping the lighting or directing the shot that you don't see how the actor spends their time getting emotionally prepped for a scene.
This is important especially if you're a technical director, it is important for you to go to a class to learn how to direct actors. The acting language can be the biggest barrier between an actor and their director. When the director tells the actor to "Look more sad" this will result in a lot of retakes.
An acting class will show you how actors respond best and how they actually aren't narcissists but sensitive artists that really want to please you!
2. Understanding Different Interpretations
Acting is interpreting the script, it is reading between the lines and responding to what happens in the scene. What makes an actor stand out is their interpretation of the story and character. A lot of the times this can be mistaken for bad acting.
Going to an acting class you can usually see numerous actors doing the same scene and how it changes from person to person. This is important to understand that each actor brings something of themselves to the character and some may be more suited than another. Their interpretation is what can make or break a role!
Seeing various takes from different actors on one scene can really open your eyes. Sometimes an actor will completely surprise you, whether it is with their looks/take on the character/speech!
Going to an acting class will keep your mind open to the possibilities a character and actor can offer, it will also make you realise that most actors aren't bad, their interpretation just didn't suit your vision.
3. Auditions Are Terrifying
As I come from an acting background I understand the horrors and stress of auditions: the hours you spend pouring over a script or rehearsing with a friend, the money you spend to get an acting coach to assist, that shift you had to get covered at work... all to walk in a room for five minutes and be written off.
Having sat on both sides of the audition room I can identify with the terror of the actor as well as the exhaustion of the director/producer/casting director. Seeing numerous amounts of people a day butchering your script can put you on edge. But if you attend an acting class and see how passionate and for lack of a better word, desperate, actors are you would actually feel more empathy towards them.
After all, they spent hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on acting training/headshots/submissions, just so they could act in front of you for three minutes.
Lastly, you bridge the gap.
Everyone on set wants to tell a compelling and authentic story, no one wants to be on a film that is ripped apart. Attending an acting class when you're a writer/director/crew member is an act of good faith, a helping hand to the other side of the camera. We all want to create something amazing and memorable, if you come to an acting class you could find your next muse or a fellow collaborator!
What makes a great filmmaker is not just their dolly shot or expensive equipment or groundbreaking script - it's their ability to lead a team to create a world where audiences can escape. Be a great and partner with your actors and crew!
As a filmmaker it is your responsibility to make sure cast and crew cooperate, even if you have an amazing script/cinematographer/etc, your film can flounder if there is no teamwork.
 |
| Joss Whedon and really famous faces, on set. |
1. Learning How to Work With Actors
There is a well known gap on film sets between the crew and the actors. Oftentimes I have found that resentment and tension can arise because of the misunderstanding between roles. Crew will complain about lazy actors and actors will complain about harsh directors.
This is why it is important for filmmakers to attend at least one acting class, to see how much heart and soul actors put into their craft. For filmmakers their craft is the camera, the shot, the story - for the actor, their craft is their emotional life and vulnerability. Two artists with two different tools, one with a camera, the other with their mind and body.
 |
| Actors are actually cry-babies! |
This is important especially if you're a technical director, it is important for you to go to a class to learn how to direct actors. The acting language can be the biggest barrier between an actor and their director. When the director tells the actor to "Look more sad" this will result in a lot of retakes.
An acting class will show you how actors respond best and how they actually aren't narcissists but sensitive artists that really want to please you!
2. Understanding Different Interpretations
Acting is interpreting the script, it is reading between the lines and responding to what happens in the scene. What makes an actor stand out is their interpretation of the story and character. A lot of the times this can be mistaken for bad acting.
Going to an acting class you can usually see numerous actors doing the same scene and how it changes from person to person. This is important to understand that each actor brings something of themselves to the character and some may be more suited than another. Their interpretation is what can make or break a role!
Going to an acting class will keep your mind open to the possibilities a character and actor can offer, it will also make you realise that most actors aren't bad, their interpretation just didn't suit your vision.
3. Auditions Are Terrifying
As I come from an acting background I understand the horrors and stress of auditions: the hours you spend pouring over a script or rehearsing with a friend, the money you spend to get an acting coach to assist, that shift you had to get covered at work... all to walk in a room for five minutes and be written off.
After all, they spent hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on acting training/headshots/submissions, just so they could act in front of you for three minutes.
Lastly, you bridge the gap.
Everyone on set wants to tell a compelling and authentic story, no one wants to be on a film that is ripped apart. Attending an acting class when you're a writer/director/crew member is an act of good faith, a helping hand to the other side of the camera. We all want to create something amazing and memorable, if you come to an acting class you could find your next muse or a fellow collaborator!
 |
| An example of great partnerships. |
** disclaimer - this article is written in good faith that you meet actors who aren't narcissistic or you attend an acting class that is legitimate and not about becoming 'famous'
James Cameron's Reddit AMA: Highlights for Filmmakers
advice
,
ama
,
directors
,
filmmaking
,
inspiration
,
james cameron
,
movies
,
screenwriting
James Cameron is a household name, whether you're a fan or not, you've seen his films. Cameron made his mark with The Terminator (1984), following with the classic horror/sci-fi film, Aliens (1986) - a personal favourite of mine. This is just the beginning of his career, what we attribute to him now is the development of 3D Technology for his epic, Avatar (2009). He was one of the co-developers of what Hollywood uses now for its 3D flicks.
And of course, there's Titanic (1997). Not only is he the director of the two biggest films of all time, he is also a deep-sea explorer, producer, editor and environmentalist.
Yesterday he did a Reddit - Ask Me Anything, one of the best public forums on the internet! Here are some highlights from the acclaimed filmmaker that I feel contain some great advice for aspiring creative types.
Check out the full AMA here.
On Creativity and Filmmaking:
On the Future of Filmmaking:
On Working With Actors:
And just for fun:
And of course, there's Titanic (1997). Not only is he the director of the two biggest films of all time, he is also a deep-sea explorer, producer, editor and environmentalist.
Yesterday he did a Reddit - Ask Me Anything, one of the best public forums on the internet! Here are some highlights from the acclaimed filmmaker that I feel contain some great advice for aspiring creative types.
Check out the full AMA here.
On Creativity and Filmmaking:
On the Future of Filmmaking:
On Working With Actors:
And just for fun:
How to Write a Scene in 11 Steps
Here's a great little infographic that's been lying around on my hard drive for a while, wanted to share because this is a great way to get past writer's block!
Courtesy of johnaugust.com / Ryan Rivard.
The Age of Marvel - Captain America: The Winter Soldier Movie Review
2014
,
filmmaking
,
marvel
,
movie reviews
This weekend's biggest movie is Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Tons of large scale marketing along with the success of 2012's The Avengers guarantees that theaters will be packed this opening weekend.
In the 50's we had the Golden Age of Hollywood, with classic film stars taking over the world. I think when we look back at today we will remember it as the Age of the Superhumans. All the biggest blockbusters that have enchanted our world today deal with extraordinary humans facing large scale destruction. Maybe globalization has made us realize how small the world is and how fragile the balance is?
Anyways, getting back to Captain America - this movie does not disappoint! The Winter Soldier amps up the action, the stakes and the story. Superhero fare has never been better. Here's a sequel that doesn't suck and gives it's audience and fanbase a meaty story with great characters and themes. Big blockbusters with superheroes are no longer shoddily written Hollywood films, here there is depth, decent acting and a plot that will surprise you!
The Winter Soldier opens with a charming scene where we are reintroduced to Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) and newcomer, veteran Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie).
The Captain is struggling with his role in the modern world and his role as a protector. Natasha Romanov (played by a scene-stealing Scarlett Johansson) quickly impedes on his self-reflection with a covert SHIELD operation that acts as the first toppling domino.
Following this first action filled scene we are brought to SHIELD headquarters where things are not as they seem. Who can you trust? Who is entitled to protect or spy on us? Is a big theme throughout this movie, which resounds with the audience in our day of social media transparency and the recent uncovering of the NSA.
Director Nick Fury is at the middle of this chaotic conspiracy. He has a much larger and meatier role in this film that really fulfills Samuel L. Jackson's screen presence. After a very impressive action scene involving Nick Fury and The Winter Soldier, we are taken on a mission with The Captain and Black Widow.
I don't want to spoil the rest of the movie for anyone but Marvel Studios has really outdone themselves. There is such a great balance of stunning action scenes paired with well written dialogue that does not exposition or monologue itself to death. I was definitely not expecting to enjoy it this much. Don't expect Marvel superhero films to die out anytime soon.
The Winter Soldier is not just a great sequel, it is a great bridge movie for the rest of the Marvel movies. They've opened up a can of worms for the Marvel Universe, make sure you stay around after the credits for one hell of a stinger. It will make you wet your pants with excitement for The Avengers: Age of Ultron.
In the 50's we had the Golden Age of Hollywood, with classic film stars taking over the world. I think when we look back at today we will remember it as the Age of the Superhumans. All the biggest blockbusters that have enchanted our world today deal with extraordinary humans facing large scale destruction. Maybe globalization has made us realize how small the world is and how fragile the balance is?Anyways, getting back to Captain America - this movie does not disappoint! The Winter Soldier amps up the action, the stakes and the story. Superhero fare has never been better. Here's a sequel that doesn't suck and gives it's audience and fanbase a meaty story with great characters and themes. Big blockbusters with superheroes are no longer shoddily written Hollywood films, here there is depth, decent acting and a plot that will surprise you!
The Winter Soldier opens with a charming scene where we are reintroduced to Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) and newcomer, veteran Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie).
The Captain is struggling with his role in the modern world and his role as a protector. Natasha Romanov (played by a scene-stealing Scarlett Johansson) quickly impedes on his self-reflection with a covert SHIELD operation that acts as the first toppling domino.
Following this first action filled scene we are brought to SHIELD headquarters where things are not as they seem. Who can you trust? Who is entitled to protect or spy on us? Is a big theme throughout this movie, which resounds with the audience in our day of social media transparency and the recent uncovering of the NSA.Director Nick Fury is at the middle of this chaotic conspiracy. He has a much larger and meatier role in this film that really fulfills Samuel L. Jackson's screen presence. After a very impressive action scene involving Nick Fury and The Winter Soldier, we are taken on a mission with The Captain and Black Widow.
I don't want to spoil the rest of the movie for anyone but Marvel Studios has really outdone themselves. There is such a great balance of stunning action scenes paired with well written dialogue that does not exposition or monologue itself to death. I was definitely not expecting to enjoy it this much. Don't expect Marvel superhero films to die out anytime soon.
The Winter Soldier is not just a great sequel, it is a great bridge movie for the rest of the Marvel movies. They've opened up a can of worms for the Marvel Universe, make sure you stay around after the credits for one hell of a stinger. It will make you wet your pants with excitement for The Avengers: Age of Ultron.
Divergent - Movie Review (B+)
(B+) Tonight I caught the latest young-adult book adaptation blockbuster - Divergent.
It's a thrilling post apocalyptic tale that was definitely picked up by studios to be the next "Hunger Games". With such comparisons to the global phenomenon of Katniss and crew so early on, Divergent has a tall order.
Does it live up? I'd say yes, it does. With a strong and charming cast, this dark and twisted adventure will take audiences on a ride. It's a long film (2hr28m) for the first installment and fits in quite a complicated plot. You've got all the ingredients; from family love, teen angst and identity crisis to initiation and near death experiences followed with a complicated series of tests and a hostile takeover. I didn't even get to the end yet!
Tris (Shailene Woodley) lives in a future Chicago, walled off from a post-war torn world. She lives with her family in the faction of Abnegation, in this city everyone belongs to a faction and it defines you. Characteristics like being selfless and humble put you in Abnegation while being intelligent puts you in Eurdice and courage (often confused with recklessness) put you in Dauntless.
Tris is Divergent, someone who does not fit into just one faction. Her kind are dangerous to the carefully balanced society of conformity. Playing a wonderful villain is Kate Winslet, a hyper intelligent and cold woman who hunts down the divetgent. The film follows Tris' rollercoaster coming-of-age while uncovering dangerous politics and is a great journey for fans of escapism.
Highlights of this film are the cast and acting. I am a huge fan of Woodley and she holds her own in her first film franchise. Theo James plays opposite and the pair have incredible chemistry - also his shirt comes off and the ladies in my theater audibly enjoyed that. All of the Dauntless buddies (Zoe Kravitz, Jai Courtney, Maggie Q, Christian Madsen, Ben Lloyd-Hughes) make for great supporting cast.
The visuals are nice but nothing new or innovative, if you've seen a big budget film you'll recognize the attempt at the gritty indie look.
The weakness with this film is it's plot, perhaps the writer or director wanted to keep everything in from the book to appease fans. I'm not sure if I would have understood all of it if I had not read the books. Also, I'm not a fan of using current music in films like this, hearing Ellie Goulding belt out "High for This" just takes me out of the supposed dystopian universe.
All in all Divergent is worth a watch. The cast brings their A-Game and the story takes you in. Don't let me ruin it for you and
try to put aside comparisons to any other dystopian dramas with a strong female lead and enjoy this one!
It's a thrilling post apocalyptic tale that was definitely picked up by studios to be the next "Hunger Games". With such comparisons to the global phenomenon of Katniss and crew so early on, Divergent has a tall order.
Tris (Shailene Woodley) lives in a future Chicago, walled off from a post-war torn world. She lives with her family in the faction of Abnegation, in this city everyone belongs to a faction and it defines you. Characteristics like being selfless and humble put you in Abnegation while being intelligent puts you in Eurdice and courage (often confused with recklessness) put you in Dauntless.
Highlights of this film are the cast and acting. I am a huge fan of Woodley and she holds her own in her first film franchise. Theo James plays opposite and the pair have incredible chemistry - also his shirt comes off and the ladies in my theater audibly enjoyed that. All of the Dauntless buddies (Zoe Kravitz, Jai Courtney, Maggie Q, Christian Madsen, Ben Lloyd-Hughes) make for great supporting cast.
The visuals are nice but nothing new or innovative, if you've seen a big budget film you'll recognize the attempt at the gritty indie look.
All in all Divergent is worth a watch. The cast brings their A-Game and the story takes you in. Don't let me ruin it for you and
try to put aside comparisons to any other dystopian dramas with a strong female lead and enjoy this one!
If anything watch it to support dynamic female characters!!
Top 13 of 2013
2013
,
film
,
movie reviews
Happy New Year and all that jazz! I am a little late for this post because my life has been turned upside down as of late. The last two weeks of 2013 were a whirlwind of indulgence and saying goodbye. 2014 came in a flash of parties and friends, hopes and dreams - and now here we are.
I have moved away from Vancouver to start a new chapter in my life. The decision came from deciding to remove myself from distraction and to refocus on my career and priorities. I will be in a 'Writer Exile', spending time in Edmonton, AB to regroup with my family and rediscover what being an Artist means to me.
Now that we have all that superfluous, introductory catch-up talk done with, let's get to the meet of bones of what we are really here for: The Top 13 of 2013
These are my TOP FILMS of 2013, they can be Oscar Nominees, tear-jerkers, hilarious comedies or infamous book adaptations - either way they made my top list and here's why.
13. Ender's Game
Another sci-fi book adaptation that I thoroughly enjoyed. You don't expect much out of big budget Hollywood movies with movie stars like Harrison Ford. What I saw was a fun adventure film with a young cast that really holds their own. If you've read the book, you know it can be a much darker and grittier film. The adaptation does a good job of keeping that element while still making it a PG13 blockbuster.
Kudos to the young Asa Butterfield for a great performance!
12. Oblivion
This was definitely one of the underrated films of the year. I just think it's the Tom Cruise thing but this film is a cinematic exploration of sight and sound. M83 does the soundtrack for this space adventure and seeing the exciting action-packed story unfold on a beautifully apocalyptic Earth was a treat. The plot is exciting and filled with enough substance to keep you on your toes.
11. The Great Gatsby
I have a soft spot for Baz Luhrmann and Leonardo DiCaprio. Combine the two with a hedonistic and stunning adaptation of one my favourite novels, and you get an arthouse big budget film with Lana Del Rey voicing the soundtrack.
Definitely not a hit with critics this year but it's definitely in my Top 13. And it's my blog, so there.
10. 12 Years a Slave
A jaw dropping and heartbreaking true story about Solomon Northup, I've already written about how much I loved this film here.
9. This Is the End
Look at that poster. Look at that poster. How can a film with that cast be anything but a raucous laugh? Roll a j, get the junkiest food you can and sign up for a pop-culture smash hit with Hollywood's funniest guys. Also, an amazing amount of hilarious cameos (Michael Cera, Rihanna, Channing Tatum, and oh, did I mention Emma Watson?)
8. Frozen
I've already written a whole blog post about why this film is such a breakthrough animated film! I won't repeat my extensive review here. What I will say is that this was such a joyful and heartwarming adventure.
They say movies reflect what the world is going through at that time; uplifting movies during periods of depression/economic turmoil, reflections on past human tragedies during times of change etc.
Humans have always been fascinated by space and by the number of movies concerning space travel and the future on my list, this interest is only increasing. For when we've conquered all of Earth and exploited her riches, where to next?
This is just my existential rambling, so let's see why I loved the Star Trek sequel.
Bring in Benedict Cumberbatch as a surprise villain and you have one of my favourite movies of the year!
6. Rush
I don't know anything about F1 Racing and I don't care to know anything about it, and this film is in my Top 13. Ron Howard brings us a vivid and heart pounding biopic about a rivalry between two real F1 racers, James Hunt and Niki Lauda, played by Chris Hemsworth and Daniel Brühl. Not much to say except that performances, cinematography and a well written script really made some movie magic happen here.
5. Side Effects
This is a modern day Hitchcock film: a beautiful woman, the handsome antihero, twisted plots concerning psychology, pharmaceuticals, and love affairs. And don't forget the well paced unfolding of characters playing a strategic game.
This was supposed to be one of Steven Soderbergh's last films - let's hope not as this film is something that you don't see anymore. Something as good as it is surprising. Kudos to the cinematography and excellent star-studded cast.
4. Blue Jasmine
One of Woody Allen's best films. A witty, tragic and yet hilarious, modern retelling of "A Streetcar Named Desire". Cate Blanchett is phenomenal in this!
Aflonso Cuaron's masterpiece. The opening scene itself is 17 minutes long; a gorgeous tracking shot of space and our little blue planet. The visuals and symbolism in the film take this thrilling 'lost in space' journey to a whole new level of enlightenment.
The technicality of filming this deserves an award in itself; paired with an exciting, edge-of-your-seat script and fantastic performances by Clooney and Bullock, you get the ride of your life.
This is one film that you must see on a BIG SCREEN WITH BIG SPEAKERS!
2. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire
Obviously, this is one of the biggest movies of the year. How could it not be on my list? And this is one film that is not overrated and completely deserving of it's box office success.
Not many times do book adaptations, let alone sequels, live up or surpass their predecessor. Catching Fire did. How shocked was I to see Suzanne Collin's complicated plot so perfectly put onto the big screen? A movie that is 2hr48mins should not be that engaging. All you want is more!
How can we not love everything about this movie? From the excellent writing, visual effects, musical score, costumes and of course the cast! Our favourite leading lady, Jennifer Lawrence, delivers. My favourite performances in this film are by: Elizabeth Banks, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Jena Malone and Stanley Tucci.
1. The Spectacular Now
So here is my #1 film. I know many may not agree or may be surprised but I have never been so touched by a film as much as this one.
I have raved about this movie to everyone I know. Here is a coming-of-age story that is truly modern and flips our ideas of what it is to grow up on its back. Written and directed by James Ponsoldt, this is a film that is as nostalgic as it is contemporary.
"The Spectacular Now" takes the audience back to a time when we aren't so innocent but we are invincible. The writing is natural and comes from a genuine place of innocence and hurt, of a first love that is unforgettable.
The young cast do a stand-up job. I definitely fell in love with Shailene Woodley after this and will continue to watch her star rise! (See her next in Divergent)
Honorable Mention: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (it's LOTR, of course it was in my top list of enjoyable films!) and Despicable Me 2 (a whole lot of laughs and cute moments).
Honorable Mention: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (it's LOTR, of course it was in my top list of enjoyable films!) and Despicable Me 2 (a whole lot of laughs and cute moments).
Well, there's my Top 13 of 2013. A little late and missing some great movies that I haven't had a chance to catch yet! (Her, American Hustle, The Wolf of Wall Street, Blue Is the Warmest Color, Nymphomaniac, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty ... are just a few.)
Happy New Year, and here's wishing everyone good movies, inspiration and great opportunities for 2014.
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I've always been a troublemaker, now I'm on my journey to being an independent filmmaker. I started out my film career as an actress but have discovered a voice and love of creating movies. What's a better job than making things from your imagination?