g0dolphins Reviews

Star Trek (2009)

HARD CORE fans beware: 1 Spoiler I wish I had been aware of

[1/10 · 11 May 2009]

I really don't want to say anything more than this: If you are a hard core trek fan BEWARE. Beware as this movie creates an alternative universe whose time-line is left wide open at the end. Also beware that in terms of the canon, this movie has taken several liberties with characters that I think would not have been possible if Roddenberry were alive.

Because of these factors I cannot even really rate this movie. What I can do though is go as far as to REJECT it. Other hard core fans at work that have seen this are also quite vocal about their disappointment.

IMDb is requiring that I add more content, so I guess I should say that the movie was thrilling while I watched it, but I kept hoping that in the end, some event would occur and restore the original time line and Roddenberry universe that has evolved these last 43 years. That didn't occur. In just two hour's time the history we love and revere has disappeared like a fart in the wind.

I type this one day after having watched it and I become more and more aggravated at this bastardization of the canon. My frustrations is enough that I probably will tell everyone I know to avoid this movie for the love of all that is the Federation.

Taken (I) (2008)

More roles for Liam like this please

[8/10 · 3 February 2009]

Take an average run of the mill action/revenge plot, throw in some over the top scenes with a bunch of one dimensional bad dudes, and what do you have? Any of the typical Steven/Jean Claude/Dolph films that have been created over the last two decades. But cast Liam as your ultimate bad ass and you have a whole new movie. Liam was rock solid and his performance was one to remember.

I've liked Liam in several roles, but never even imagined him in this type of 'out for revenge and bang your dead' performance. It was fantastic. I rate Taken an 8. In the hands of more expected actors (like those listed above) this would have been a 5, 6 at best.

Item of Note: This movie was PG13 and for the life of me I don't know how it was given this rating. It should have been R, especially due to an intense torture scene.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull (2008)

a worthy new installment to the Indiana Jones canon

[8/10 · 23 May 2008]

Let's keep this simple, shall we? If you are of an age where the earlier films left an impression upon you, this installment delivers in the same vein. Since the teaser announcement at last year's Comic Con, my two biggest concerns were; how would Harrison's age be addressed, and would today's advancements in special effects prove to be a negative? Let's face it, Ford would (and should) be playing an older Indiana, and that had to be somehow incorporated into the movie. Also, the previous films used the latest technological advances to support the over all plot, not dominate it.

In both instances, these concerns were alleviated and that allowed me to suspend disbelief in everything else and thoroughly enjoy the movie. George and Steven captured the essence of whom and what Indy is all about, and that translated into a film worthy of addition to the Indiana Jones canon. When the credits rolled, the overwhelming majority of us who were in the theater on opening night gave a convincing round of applause. Our memories of Indiana Jones were enhanced by this latest tale.

Black Irish (2007)

And the Best Kept Secret Award for 2007 goes to Black Irish

[8/10 · 9 March 2008]

Is this a baseball movie? Maybe. But if it isn't it certainly is a gut wrenching, laugh out loud, sob and sniffle, slice of life pic that is just magic from beginning to end movie. Simply put, this is one of the best movies that you have never heard of, and in today's age of instant gratification, that is remarkable.

I have already told you more than what I knew about this movie before I rented it, and that's saying too much. Trust me. If this has piqued your curiosity, then RUN, do not walk, to your nearest video rental store and bring home a copy. You'll thank me for it. What a pleasant surprise it was. 8 out of 10

We Own the Night (2007)

Why Own the Night?

[4/10 · 5 March 2008]

This movie is a real disappointment, especially if you enjoy most of the past performances by Joaquin Phoenix and Mark Wahlberg. Both actors have built a fine body of work, and Robert Duvall is one of the finest actors working today. However, We Own the Night fell short in so many areas I had to offset the otherwise love fest other users are having with this movie.

You could blame the script, as the dialog was weak in spots, and uninspired throughout. Phoenix' character, who is both son and brother to New York cops, has chosen a different path. But very unfortunate circumstances lead to his immediate entry into the police force, as a parole officer, where he instantly becomes the De-facto boss of the narcotics division. Prior to this though, he is placed into protective custody, but is allowed to go back to his nightclub, or the apartment of his girlfriends mother, and to even walk the streets if he sees fit. Duvalls character is always either mad at one son or the other, and frequently makes boneheaded decisions and statements that keep sending Phoenix further along a downward spiral of hopelessness and self loathing. Wahlberg plays a role that is both under developed and boring.

You could blame the direction, especially during the last 30 minutes of the movie. What did start as a unique story with a convincing amount of tension slowly falls apart, and at the end becomes laughable. The ending is so anti climatic that it too becomes comical. As Phoenix and team are tracking the movie's arch nemesis through a field of reeds, he calls off the search, orders a retreat and sets the field on fire. The team waits for the smoke and flames to flush the bad guy, when Phoenix goes back into the field. Impervious to heat and smoke, he hears a rustle and drops our villain with a single blind shot to the heart. The bad dude utters "Bobby" (Phoenix's character) and dies. But wait, it's not over there! Phoenix dramatically (pun indeed intended) exits through the smoke to find all the other cops now well away from the field and encircling the venerable handcuffed master-mind of the movie (no need to get too much into detail, it would further ruin the silliness and humor of the moment).

The movie does have merits, as I said. It is a period piece and does do the nightlife of 1988 justice. The violence is gritty and there is a lot of tension built up as the story unfolds. Nevertheless, these cannot overcome the many short falls and agony that one must endure. You will be thankful when credits roll at the end.

There Will Be Blood (2007)

The parts were greater than the whole

[7/10 · 18 February 2008]

This is a most difficult movie to comment on, and I find it hard to put into words as to the reason. I think I enjoyed the movie, but how, why? Did I enjoy Daniel Day Lewis' portrayal as the leading antagonist? Most defiantly. DDL has provided us with many memorable performances and his role as Daniel Plainview is no less in intensity as was Butcher Bob, nor any less authentic as Nathaniel Poe. Did I enjoy other aspects of the film? Sure! The period piece was of considerable interest; how oil can transform your life, for better, worse or otherwise. The cinematography was beautiful and telling. I fully appreciate the hard, dirty, bone weary work that this occupation would entail. The rag tag day-to-day existence for those working the oil fields, and the land from whence it came. The score too was beautifully blended, adding to the epic scope of the experience. Paul Dano was very convincing too as the prophet/preacher of the small community where Plainview acquires vast tracks of land. His character was equally complex, and I felt he complimented DDL quite adequately. Even the story had many merits, as we came to understand the type of people who produced oil, and how the product of its labor and influence can impact those who were associated with its extraction. So one would think that the buzz and hype around it in February 2008 are worthwhile, yet I cannot seem to agree. There is something missing, something that falls short of the expectations. Too many people are of opposite opinion regarding this movie; it is either a masterpiece or drivel. I find it is neither, although I am much more likely to lean towards the former. For that reason alone I should be what, somewhere five or seven on a scale of 1-10? Perhaps it does, I just wish I could feel it. So should I give it a 7 and stop wasting time lamenting over it? Yes, a 7, for reasons I can explain but not feel confident about. It pains me to do so, therefore I can only conclude that my expectations for this movie were not met.

National Treasure: Book of Secrets (2007)

National Treasure: Book of Boredom

[4/10 · 2 January 2008]

This movie pales horribly in comparison to the original. There were plenty of F/X throughout, but those couldn't hold the movie together alone. Dialog was forced, attempts at humor failed miserably (I recall a majority of the theater laughing twice), and I found myself looking forward to the end with more than an hour to go. A day's worth of reflection after going to the theater and there is nothing that compels me to change my review.

2 points worth mentioning. 1). For those who do enjoy the franchise, a vague arc is presented for a potential third installment. 2). The audience was treated to a 10-12 minute Goofy cartoon before the movie began. While pleasant and enjoyable enough, it wasn't worth the price of admission.

The Good Old Boys (1995 TV Movie)

Tommy Lee Jones in perhaps his most unappreciated moment

[8/10 · 29 November 2007]

As I recall from trade mags, back when this flick first came out, TNT approached TLJ to be the lead, but at the time, he was pondering his future in the film industry and was considering directing. He wanted more than Turner and his execs were offering as the lead actor, but agreed to sign on to the project for less if he could be given free reign to direct, which was a bargain for the price. What ensued was The Good Ole Boys as we know it.

The product is a Western equally worthy of mentioning in the same short list as Unforgiven, Silverado, 3:10 to Yuma and recent others. It is a classic Western that is as priceless as anything given to us from both Johns Wayne and Ford.

In the opening scenes, we watch a cowboy as he and his horse graze the high country; a scene that could occur at any time within our frontier history. He eventually heads home and then we are drawn into a turn of the century frontier settlement juxtapositioned with the old west; sweeping sky lines and open ranges slowly encroached by the advent of Westward Expansion and technology.

The story shows us how a cowboy out on the vast range, isolated by big sweeping scenes, with only his horse to keep him company, enters into the new century. After he sojourns back to the land of his roots, a beautiful and memorable story unfolds with the likes of Frances McDormand, Sissy Spacek, Sam Sheppard, Wilford Bremly and the (as far as I know) debut of Matt Damon waltz into the story to reveal hopes, dreams, missed opportunities and current dilemmas. Soon our cowboy is thrust into the new world with new problems. His leisurely life amongst cattle, horses and campfires is soon a distant memory. The choices he acts upon effect all those around him, and then while his input and decision unfold, he then must decide if he will stick around in this New World to witness the results or return to the wide-open country.

This story falls within the framework of time-honored classics; where we get to see the impact of certain choices made and the ramifications as they unfold. We witness familial love and hard decisions. What makes this most memorable are the aspects of very good story, memorable performances, and great visuals/sound score.

Currently TLJ enjoys worthy accolades for his roles in The Valley of Elah and No Country For Old Men, which should lead to inevitable Oscar nominations. His vision and performance in The Good Ole Boys, certainly worth-while for fans, should round out his current body of work.

8 of 10

No Country for Old Men (2007)

Coen Bros never cease to amaze

[10/10 · 13 November 2007]

Similar to the comments made by many others here who like the body of work by the brothers Coen, No Country for Old Men is an excellent addition. It is one of those rare movies that I dwell on for days, thinking back on the movie and further contemplating what I experienced: the breath taking imagery, the dialog, the way the scene was filmed, etc. It was a movie that dazzled the senses and engrossed the intellect.

There are ample areas that could be discussed as to why this is flick is getting such high ratings here on the IMDb (I give it 10 out of 10, and there are very few movies that I would rate as such). As I have read the comments, many of them seem to be for all the right reasons. In summary: -TLJ certainly provided probably his best work ever as a supporting actor -Javier Bardem (who?) portrayed a most vile yet mesmerizing and memorable psychopath -Josh Brolin gave a solid performance as a man who only wanted to improve his lot in the world -Sensational supporting cast -The score (or lack thereof) was brilliantly woven into the story that unfolded -The imagery that we all come to expect from the Coen's -Oscar nominations for both Coen brothers

However, one thing that I keep dwelling upon that I have not yet seen comments about is the randomness that permeated every aspect of this movie. True, the violence certainly had an in your face random quality throughout, but many parts of life seemed to have a random quality to it as well. One is left to wonder just how much of life is random, ranging from the joys and positive experiences we all encounter to the absolute horror that would possibly be experienced if such violence were to be thrust upon us.

Certainly No Country For Old Men will also stand the test of time, it will for me at any rate. That translates into making the short list of Must See Classics; which means I'll buy it and watch many more times for many years to come.

Carlito's Way (1993)

Some of Mr. Pachino's best work

[8/10 · 9 August 2005]

The recent viewing of this movie for the first time since it was released in the mid 90s confirmed my long held beliefs: this is some of Mr. Pachino's best work on film. But not only does he shine as Carlito, great performances from Penelope Ann Miller (his love interest) and Sean Penn (Carlito's lawyer) are masterfully directed by Brian De Palma in a credible tale of attempted redemption.

In this gritty crime/gangster tale, Carlito is released from incarceration on a technicality, and thus begins his attempts to stay clean and legitimate after squandering a lifetime that had culminated with his 30 year sentence. His goal is simple: secure enough money to buy his way into a legitimate business venture. But achieving this is another story altogether. The journey we witness is walking a fine line in the old neighborhood, where he must compete with his reputation among both his peers and the up and coming thugs who have hustled their way into prominence since his conviction some five or so years earlier.

Carlito proves to be a complex character with a solid understanding of both right and wrong, as well as very strong ambitions. These two traits are quite often opposed with one another, and it is in this conflict that De Palma brings out the best of Pachino. Somewhere along the way Carlito has won you to his cause, and despite the character flaws and set backs, you want to see him achieve his dream. But as the story unfolds, the stakes and risks are greater and his success seems less likely.

What I especially enjoyed in this movie was the narration Pachino had of Carlito in many crucial or pivotal parts of the script. Unlike many of his more well known and recognized roles, where Pachino had long brooding scenes, it was left to our imagination to often times wonder what the character was thinking. In Carlito's Way we are offered a glimpse into that thought process, and it is quite rewarding indeed.

Highly recommended. 8 out of 10

The Forgotten (2004)

X File fans, rejoice

[7/10 · 11 April 2005]

I originally did not see this movie during its theatrical release based basically upon reviews here. And those reviews were way off the mark.

Foremost, I have to say that I enjoy a fantasy/conspiracy/SciFi movie probably more than others, so I will have a tendency to give these movies the benefit of the doubt. But for the Forgotten there should have been no border-line/ on the fence decision. All the negative criticism was unwarranted, and I feel the entire package was put together rather nicely.

Often times you'll see a movie with similar rating and easily notice poor editing, or substantial holes in the plot, even performances by those who were waiting for their next major role. None of this is present.

Moore gave a very credible performance, and towards the end when the twist is revealed you'll be thinking, 'yes I can see this'. The movie really was built around her abilities to carry the script and she delivered.

And for those who say the movie unravels as to why her child is 'forgotten', I say bullocks! It's a fantastic twist and the tension is only further heightened. At one point she begins to rationalize during her near psychotic turn of events how can all these things logically be happening which was about the same time I was trying to develop the same reasons. It only added to the depth of the movie.

My one criticism was the ending. To me, there were only two possible endings, and I would have been more satisfied with the alternate outcome. While not devastating, it dropped the movie a tad.

I recommend this movie. If you miss Mulder and Scully, you will not be disappointed.

Sin City (2005)

Like many of the characters, I was blown away

[10/10 · 11 April 2005]

I find it very hard to describe this movie in a manner that words will do justice. Similar to comic book medium, most of the story is based upon visual format. With that being said, this movie is an absolute orgy for the eyes.

Without repeating what most others have previously indicated so eloquently, I'll just add that about 5 minutes into the first scene, I felt like I was in an F-15 Eagle; full after burner ascents, cork screws and under black-out condition g-forces for the next 2 hours SOLID. The ONLY negative was just that. You never get to come up for air, and I felt mentally exhausted (while still exhilarated) after the credits began to role.

Two things about this amazing tour de force that really stood out with me: 1). This was the role Rourke was born to play. If he isn't nominated for an Oscar, then something is terribly twisted in Tinsel Town. Again, I can't even begin to describe his portrayal of Marv, other than to say once we recognized him as this character, the screen was simply alive with blistering energy. Then factor in other exceptional performances put in by Del Toro, Alba, Owen, etc., and he still rises head and shoulders above the others. It's going to be remembered as one of the finest anti-hero performances ever. 2). Not too many movies completely pervade my thoughts long into the night. My wife and I had plans afterwards, but all we could do was talk about what we just experienced. NO MOVIE had ever completely occupied my thoughts the following day. I still find myself wickedly drawn to the impressions I'm left with.

10 out of 10 – my highest praise possible.

The Quiet Man (1952)

in light of the performance, should be titled the Oscar Man?

[10/10 · 29 September 2004]

I grew up watching the Ford/Wayne movies that everyone else knows all too well. The other night I was intrigued by the TiVo information about a movie I had never even heard of starring Wayne and Directed by Ford. It sounded like quite a departure for both, especially Wayne in 1952.

I just couldn't believe what I was viewing after about 15 minutes into the film. The sweeping and beautiful vistas, the development of a haunted and potentially troubled past of this American come home to the small village in Ireland where he was born...I began thinking of Hollywood's other leading actors of that time, and how this role would probably be better served by the likes of Grant, Gable, Stewart, etc., however...as the movie progressed, I began to see the Duke in a completely new light.

Throughout much of the movie, the title aptly decribes Sean Thorton, at least his dialog. Few parts for much of the story involve John speaking more than a sentence or two, it seems often times just a few words at a time; and those were in scenes where the bulk of the dialog were from his co-stars and supportng actors. However this isn't really even noted except early on. But once you become absorbed in his screen presence, and as the plot develops, the charisma and presence of the actor are HUGE! Make no mistake, this movie magnificently illustrates how incredible Wayne was as a leading man in a superb drama. It's often times mentioned by the legendary actors who appear on Inside the Actors Studio, that movie magic is captured in many a scene where we just behold the actors in silence. This to me captures that very concept.

I won't go into the plot or theme much more than I have. but I will say after one viewing, I have to place this movie in my personal top three of Wayne's body of work. My wife, who wasn't a big Wayne fan to begin with, but loves the romances from this period, simply fell in love with this movie.

One a scale of 1-10, 10.

Hulk (2003)

Ang Lee works magic

[6 July 2003]

Ang Lee has truly captured the essence of the story board concept of comic books and adapted that for the big screen. Its a shame his vision has been lost on the masses. Scene after scene appeared as if ripped right from a frame! Those interested only in proven formulatic cookie cutter adventure/ action movies will be disappointed. Those who grew up reading, collecting and dreaming of involvement in comics will stand up and cheer.

It can't really be compared to the other offerings of Marvel's mainstays as it is unlike any of the predecessors. That being said, it will draw comparisons. Go decide for yourself where it ranks. However, be advised; over time this film should be remembered as the best adaptation of paper and ink to celluoid that Hollywood has offered.

'nuff said

South of Heaven, West of Hell (2000)

Dwight fans beware!!! Disappointing on all levels

[2/10 · 27 March 2002]

Sorry, but I have to say there was only one aspect of this film that was enjoyable, and that was the sweeping scenery. And these wonderful scenes were sandwiched in between the most absurd and drivel filled scenes imaginable.

I gave the movie about 30 minutes and had to press eject. Too much pointless obscenity, nudity, and violence. If the plot made any sense I would have tried to stick it out. Perhaps a film critic and or film student would have enjoyed this (for reasons unknown to me or anyone else that could care less about such things), but I certainly couldn't.

If you are like most people who probably rented this because of Dwight, don't bother. For everything he is credited for on this movie (writing, starring, directing and musical score), he fails - miserably.

Black Hawk Down (2001)

A MUST see for those who served since the Reagan era

[21 January 2002]

While other recent movies about war have been heralded as epic and masterpieces, BHD brought to the front of my mind memories of my enlisted days in the mid - late 80s like no other film (distant second being the 'hard ass' drill instructor in Full Metal Jacket during boot camp). True, this movie is not for the faint of heart, and true, the action sequences will leave you gasping and gut wrenched over the duration of the film. But what I took away from it the most was Scott's capture of many of the subtleties one would encounter in field conditions in today's modern military: The field kitchen scenes, an enlisted man 'packing' his can of Copenhagen (has this ever been captured on film before? We all dipped either Cope or Skoal), gathering around a VCR, killing time in a hanger with nothing better to do than imitate the quirky perks of the brass. Even the dialect and language. `Hoo-ahh'. We were so ate up that age and time, and Scott captures this perfectly. Was this borrowed from the book of the same name? I don't know, but I want to buy it and read it to find out.

Is it a great war flick? You bet it is. To me, it is an instant classic. I'll probably see it again and then buy the DVD. Are there any weaknesses? I couldn't think of any. Great cast, enough character development to sustain the plot, and STUNNING footage. My only regret (and this has no bearing on the movie whatsoever) is that I didn't realize the events that took place in 1993, and didn't pay more attention to the world political scene at that time.

Memorable Scene: At the very end, when all troops have evacuated the hot zone and are back at base camp. In the field kitchen, and the conversation is about 'why you did it' (enlist). I won't give it away, but I have to say that for any guy who served in the military in this period, you'll do your best to 'maintain composure' during and after the scene.

10 out of 10